Help with macaroni salad!

[Dakota731]

I just made a huge batch for a party tomorrow and after mixing it with dressing, I realize my macaroni isn’t cooked the whole way. Is there anything I can do now or will it soften up? I have 24 hours until my party!!

 

[QueenIsabella]

Maybe add a little water to it now, and let it set. (a cup or two, depending on how much pasta). Pasta can still absorb water when it's cold--think of how the noodles expand in leftover chicken noodle soup. Give it a stir now and again.

Sometimes, cooks deliberately leave the pasta a little under-done, so it'll absorb the liquid/flavors of whatever they sauce it with. It's a technique! Probably has its origins with someone like you (who accidently undercooked the pasta), but hey--go with it! You PLANNED this, right?

If all else fails, blame the recipe.

 

[mrsstats79]

I would just start over and make another batch.

 

[Her Dotness]

If you mean it's that leathery definitely-not-done when chewing it rather than just a bit too chewy, then I agree with the pp, make a whole new batch.