Hawaiian Macaroni Salad Recipe
If you’re dreaming of an island escape but only have your kitchen at hand, this Hawaiian Macaroni Salad Recipe is the vacation you can actually taste. Luscious, creamy, and dotted with vibrant veggies in every forkful, this salad captures the chilled comfort of a true Hawaiian “plate lunch” classic. Every cookout, picnic, or backyard gathering absolutely lights up with a bowl of this crowd-pleaser on the table! Try it once, and you’ll see why it’s not just a side dish in Hawaii, but a must-have tradition.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Hawaiian Macaroni Salad Recipe is in its simplicity. Each ingredient plays a starring role, giving the salad its famous creamy texture, subtle tang, and fresh crunch. Here’s what brings that authentic island magic together:
- Elbow macaroni (1 lb): Go for classic elbow macaroni—it soaks up the tangy, creamy dressing and gives the salad its signature structure.
- Mayonnaise (2 cups, preferably Best Foods or Hellmann’s): This is the heart of the dressing, so don’t skimp or swap—use full-fat for the richest texture.
- Whole milk (1/4 cup): Adds a touch of silkiness and helps the dressing glide through every bite of pasta.
- Apple cider vinegar (2 tbsp): Brings the essential zip and brightness to balance the rich mayo, waking up the flavors.
- Granulated sugar (1 tbsp): Just a hint is all you need to round out that signature tang with a subtle sweetness that lingers.
- Carrots (2 medium, peeled and shredded): For a welcome pop of color, gentle crunch, and a quiet sweetness that makes the salad irresistible.
- Yellow onion (1/4 cup, finely grated, with juice): Grating lets the mild onion flavor melt into the dressing without any harsh bite.
- Salt and pepper (to taste): Don’t be shy—season boldly to bring out the best in every ingredient.
- Celery (2 stalks, finely chopped, optional): Adds a refreshing crunch and subtle herbal note, if you like.
- Green onions (2, thinly sliced, optional): For a dash of color and a light, springy onion flavor in every bite.
How to Make Hawaiian Macaroni Salad Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Macaroni
This isn’t your usual al dente—the secret is to cook the macaroni a few minutes longer than the package suggests. You want it super soft and just on the brink of falling apart. Drain and rinse with cold water. This ultra-tender pasta is what gives the Hawaiian Macaroni Salad Recipe its signature creamy, almost melt-in-your-mouth texture.
Step 2: Season the Warm Pasta
While the macaroni is still warm, drizzle on the apple cider vinegar and give it a gentle stir. Let it sit for about 15 minutes. This step is pure magic: the warm pasta absorbs all the tangy brightness, building big flavor from the inside out, not just on the surface.
Step 3: Mix the Creamy Dressing
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, whole milk, and granulated sugar until beautifully smooth. This is what gives the salad its billowy, cloud-like coating. Taste the dressing—you want that sweet-salty-tang combo to really pop.
Step 4: Add Fresh Vegetables
Stir in the shredded carrots, grated onion (don’t forget the onion juice!), and then the celery or green onions if you’re feeling extra. Each veg adds something different—color, crunch, and a fresh counterpoint to the rich, creamy dressing. This keeps your Hawaiian Macaroni Salad Recipe perfectly balanced.
Step 5: Combine and Chill
Fold the macaroni gently into the dressing, making sure every little bend and corner gets coated. Season generously with salt and pepper to taste. Cover the bowl and let it hang out in the fridge for at least two hours—overnight is even better! This resting time lets all the flavors come together and the salad achieve its signature creamy perfection. Stir once more before serving, and don’t hesitate to add an extra spoonful of mayo if it’s looking a little thirsty.
How to Serve Hawaiian Macaroni Salad Recipe
Garnishes
For a true island touch, sprinkle some sliced green onions or a few extra shreds of carrot over the top just before serving. A pinch of cracked black pepper or a handful of chopped fresh parsley gives it a finishing flourish that looks as inviting as it tastes.
Side Dishes
Nothing says Hawaiian plate lunch like this macaroni salad paired with grilled chicken, rich teriyaki beef, or smoky kalua pork. For a lighter touch, serve it with fresh grilled fish or vegetarian skewers. It’s a natural fit alongside steamed rice and a leafy green salad—the creamy texture makes every plate more satisfying.
Creative Ways to Present
For your next gathering, scoop the salad into small mason jars for a picnic-ready treat, or pile it high in a big, vibrant bowl surrounded by tropical fruits and barbecue skewers. You can even make individual lettuce cups filled with macaroni salad for a fun, hand-held appetizer twist. However you serve it, this Hawaiian Macaroni Salad Recipe is always the life of the party.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Your salad will keep well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. If it thickens up or seems a little dry after sitting, simply stir in a bit more mayonnaise or a splash of milk before serving to revive that signature creaminess.
Freezing
While technically you can freeze leftovers, the texture of the dressing tends to change and may become grainy after thawing. For best results—and that dreamy, creamy consistency—enjoy your Hawaiian Macaroni Salad Recipe fresh from the fridge rather than from the freezer.
Reheating
This salad is meant to be served cold or at cool room temperature. If you’ve made it ahead, just let it sit out for 15–20 minutes and give it a good stir before serving. There’s no need to reheat, and it’s actually best when chilled!
FAQs
Can I make Hawaiian Macaroni Salad Recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! In fact, it’s even better when made a day in advance so the flavors have time to meld. Just give it a good stir and adjust the moisture with a little more mayo or milk before serving.
What kind of mayonnaise is best for this salad?
The classic and authentic choice is Best Foods (or Hellmann’s, depending on your location). Full-fat is key for that creamy, dreamy texture—don’t use light versions, as they can make the salad watery.
Why do I need to cook the pasta extra soft?
Authentic Hawaiian Macaroni Salad Recipe uses tender, overcooked pasta—this allows the macaroni to fully absorb the tangy dressing and results in the ultra-creamy, luscious texture that makes this dish so crave-worthy.
Can I customize with other add-ins?
Totally! While traditional recipes are simple, feel free to experiment with chopped hard-boiled eggs, sweet peas, or even a pinch of curry powder for a fun twist. Just remember, the heart of this salad is its creamy dressing and soft, plump macaroni.
Is this salad vegetarian?
Yes, the basic Hawaiian Macaroni Salad Recipe is totally vegetarian. Just be mindful of what you serve on the side if you want to keep the whole meal veggie-friendly!
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking to bring a taste of the islands to your next meal, this Hawaiian Macaroni Salad Recipe is your ticket. Creamy, comforting, and always a hit, it’s the kind of dish that starts conversations and inspires second helpings. Give it a try—your kitchen (and your friends) will be full of aloha in no time!
Print
Hawaiian Macaroni Salad Recipe
- Total Time: 2 hours 30 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Creamy and delicious, this Hawaiian Macaroni Salad is a classic side dish that complements any meal with its rich flavors and satisfying texture. Perfect for a tropical-themed party or a simple family dinner.
Ingredients
Macaroni Salad:
- 1 lb elbow macaroni
Dressing:
- 2 cups mayonnaise (preferably Best Foods or Hellmann’s)
- 1/4 cup whole milk
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
Additional:
- 2 medium carrots, peeled and shredded
- 1/4 cup finely grated onion (with juice)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: 2 stalks celery, finely chopped
- Optional: 2 green onions, thinly sliced
Instructions
- Cook the Macaroni: Boil macaroni until very soft, drain, and rinse with cold water.
- Prepare the Dressing: Whisk mayonnaise, milk, and sugar in a bowl. Add carrots, onion, and celery or green onions.
- Combine Ingredients: Stir macaroni into the dressing until coated.
- Chill: Refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving.
Notes
- Adjust mayo amount to reach desired creaminess.
- Use full-fat mayonnaise for best results.
- Pair with Hawaiian BBQ or grilled meats.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Hawaiian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 350mg
- Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 24g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
