My youngest little grandson loves this stuff.  I made some last summer, enough to feed myself and my other young grandson, and the little stinker ate it all before the older one and I had a chance to even taste it.  I guess he liked it!  I don't soak the red onions first, heck, we LOVE that onion flavor, that's what makes it so good!  You could always fry the onion first and that will give it a less pungent flavor.

THIS IS JUST DELICIOUS and a staple at all church get togethers and summer picnics.

https://southernbite.com/macaroni-salad-and-my-childhood-fears-of-the-potluck/

For just 1 or 2 people you might want to cut this recipe in half.  Also, I used Champagne vinegar, which has a much more mild flavor.  I don't remember where I ordered it but the grocery store did not carry it so I ordered it online from somewhere!