Hawaiian Macaroni Salad is a creamy and tangy pasta dish that’s a staple at Hawaiian barbecues and plate lunches.
It’s simple to make and pairs perfectly with grilled meats, fish, or as a standalone dish.
Follow this easy recipe to bring a taste of the islands to your table!
Ingredients:
- 1 pound elbow macaroni
- 2 cups mayonnaise
- 1/2 cup whole milk
- 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 2 large carrots, peeled and grated
- 1/2 cup finely chopped celery
- 1/2 cup finely chopped sweet onion
- 1/4 cup finely chopped green onions (optional)
- 1/2 cup frozen peas, thawed (optional)
Equipment:
- Large pot for boiling pasta
- Colander
- Large mixing bowl
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Mixing spoon
Instructions:
Cook the Macaroni:
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook according to the package instructions until tender. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process. Let it drain thoroughly.
Prepare the Dressing:
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, whole milk, apple cider vinegar, sugar, salt, and black pepper until smooth and well combined.
Mix the Salad:
Add the cooked and cooled macaroni to the dressing in the large bowl. Stir to coat the macaroni evenly with the dressing.
Add the grated carrots, chopped celery, chopped sweet onion, green onions (if using), and thawed peas (if using). Mix until all the ingredients are well combined.
Chill the Salad:
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together and the salad to chill properly.
Serve and Enjoy:
Give the salad a good stir before serving. Adjust seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed. Serve chilled as a side dish with your favorite main courses.
Tips and Variations:
For a richer flavor, let the salad chill in the refrigerator overnight.
Add a teaspoon of Dijon mustard for an extra tangy kick.
Substitute the sweet onion with red onion for a slightly different flavor and color.
Use light mayonnaise and low-fat milk for a lighter version of the salad.
Nutritional Information (per serving):
- Note: Nutritional values may vary depending on portion size and specific ingredients used.
Enjoy Your Hawaiian Macaroni Salad!
This Easy Hawaiian Macaroni Salad is a crowd-pleaser that’s perfect for picnics, potlucks, and family gatherings.
Its creamy and tangy dressing, combined with crunchy vegetables, creates a delicious and refreshing side dish that complements a variety of meals.
Bring a bit of Hawaiian flavor to your next meal with this simple and tasty recipe!