1-First Step: Cook the pastaBring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the 2 cups of elbow macaroni and cook until al dente, usually about 7 to 8 minutes. You want the pasta tender, but still firm enough to hold its shape in the salad. If you are cooking for a lighter meal plan, keep the pasta on the firmer side so it feels more satisfying and does not break apart later.

2-Second Step: Drain and cool the macaroniDrain the pasta in a colander, then rinse it under cold running water for about 30 seconds. This stops the cooking and removes extra starch. That step matters because extra starch can make Gordon Ramsay Macaroni Salad gummy. Let the macaroni drain well so the dressing clings to the pasta instead of sliding off.

3-Third Step: Make the dressingIn a large mixing bowl, whisk together the 1/2 cup mayonnaise, 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard, 1 tablespoon white wine vinegar, salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Taste the dressing before adding the pasta. It should taste a little stronger than you want the final salad to taste because the pasta will mellow it out. If you like a lighter profile, you can whisk in a small spoonful of water or extra vinegar, but keep the creamy base intact.

4-Fourth Step: Prep the vegetablesFinely chop the 2 stalks celery, dice the 1 cup red bell pepper, and finely chop the 1/4 cup red onion. The smaller the pieces, the more evenly they mix through the salad. That gives you a better bite every time. If you are making this for kids or picky eaters, keep the onion pieces extra small so the flavor stays gentle.

5-Fifth Step: Combine everythingAdd the cooled macaroni to the bowl with the dressing. Then fold in the celery, red bell pepper, red onion, and 1 tablespoon parsley or chives. Stir gently so you do not break the pasta. The vegetables should be spread through the salad, not clumped in one spot.

6-Sixth Step: Chill for the best flavorCover the bowl and refrigerate the Gordon Ramsay Macaroni Salad for at least 30 minutes before serving. This short rest gives the dressing time to soak into the pasta and lets the flavors settle. If you have more time, chill it for up to 4 hours. Just stir once before serving so the dressing looks smooth again.

7-Seventh Step: Taste and finishRight before serving, taste the salad and adjust the salt and pepper if needed. If it feels too thick, add a tiny spoonful of mayonnaise or a splash of vinegar. If it tastes flat, a pinch more salt usually fixes it. Finish with a little extra parsley or chives on top for a fresh look.