Description
Hawaiian Macaroni Salad is a classic island favorite known for its rich, creamy texture and perfect balance of sweet and tangy flavors. This easy-to-make dish is a must-have for Hawaiian plate lunches, backyard BBQs, and potlucks. With simple ingredients and a few expert tips, you can create an authentic Hawaiian Mac Salad that’ll have everyone coming back for seconds.
Ingredients
- 2 cups elbow macaroni
- 1 ½ cups mayonnaise (Best Foods or Hellmann’s preferred)
- ¼ cup whole milk
- 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
- 1 tbsp sugar
- 1 carrot, shredded
- ½ small onion, grated
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook the Macaroni: Boil elbow macaroni until slightly overcooked (about 10-12 minutes). Drain and rinse under cold water. Let cool.
- Add Vinegar: While the pasta is still warm, toss it with apple cider vinegar and let it sit for 5 minutes to soak up the tangy flavor.
- Make the Dressing: In a bowl, mix mayonnaise, milk, and sugar until smooth and well combined.
- Combine: Add the shredded carrot, grated onion, and dressing to the macaroni. Stir well until evenly coated.
- Season: Add salt and pepper to taste. Adjust seasonings as needed.
- Chill: Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour (or up to overnight) before serving. This helps the flavors meld perfectly.
Notes
For the Best Creaminess: Use high-quality mayo and don’t skimp on the dressing — the pasta should be well-coated.
Avoid Mushy Pasta: Slightly overcooking the pasta helps it absorb the dressing without becoming too soft.
Let It Chill: Refrigerating for at least an hour enhances the flavor and texture.
Optional Add-ins: Try diced ham, chopped green onions, or a splash of hot sauce for a fun twist.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 2 minutes