Hawaiian Macaroni Salad Recipe

Creamy, tangy, and full of island charm, this Hawaiian Macaroni Salad Recipe brings pure aloha to your table. With its tender pasta, crisp veggies, and signature sweet-tangy dressing, it’s more than just a side dish—it’s a must-have alongside your favorite barbecue, grilled meats, or even a simple weekday meal. Each bite bursts with flavor and comfort, making this classic dish a true crowd-pleaser you’ll want to whip up again and again.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Every ingredient in this Hawaiian Macaroni Salad Recipe plays an essential role, from the rich creaminess of mayo to the fresh crunch of veggies. These simple staples form the heart and soul of the salad, blending together for that unforgettable taste and satisfying texture.

• Elbow macaroni (8 oz): The base of the salad, these little noodles soak up all the creamy dressing and remain tender even after chilling.
• Mayonnaise (1¼ cups): This is what gives the salad its luscious creaminess—use your favorite brand for best flavor.
• Whole milk (¼ cup): Helps thin the mayo just enough, making the dressing rich but pourable.
• Apple cider vinegar (1 tablespoon): Adds a gentle tang that brightens up the whole bowl.
• Sugar (1 teaspoon): Just the right amount to bring a hint of sweetness and balance the zing of the vinegar.
• Salt (1 teaspoon): Enhances all the flavors, giving each bite a rounded finish.
• Black pepper (¼ teaspoon): For a subtle peppery kick that ties everything together.
• Large carrot, shredded (1): Adds bright color, sweetness, and a delicate crunch—so refreshing.
• Chopped celery (½ cup): Another dose of crispness and gentle, aromatic flavor.
• Chopped green onion (⅓ cup), plus more for serving: Gives savory depth and a pop of color atop the final dish.
• Grated yellow onion (¼ cup): The secret ingredient that brings everything to life with just the right amount of sharpness.

How to Make Hawaiian Macaroni Salad Recipe

Step 1: Cook the Macaroni

Start by boiling a pot of salted water and cooking the elbow macaroni according to the package directions—aim for that perfect al dente texture. Once they’re tender, drain them in a colander and rinse under cold water. This stops the cooking process and cools down the noodles quickly, ensuring your salad doesn’t get mushy later. Set them aside to cool completely; a little patience here means your salad will have the best bite.

Step 2: Prepare the Dressing

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, whole milk, apple cider vinegar, sugar, salt, and black pepper until it’s beautifully smooth and creamy. This dressing is the heart of the Hawaiian Macaroni Salad Recipe—it should taste balanced, slightly tangy, and just sweet enough. Give it a little taste and adjust the salt or vinegar, if needed, to match your personal preference.

Step 3: Mix the Salad

Once your macaroni is completely cool, add it to the bowl with the dressing. Gently stir it all together until every piece of pasta is fully coated in that silky sauce. This step makes sure every forkful is packed with flavor—don’t be afraid to really mix things up.

Step 4: Add Vegetables

Now comes the fun, colorful part! Fold in the shredded carrot, chopped celery, chopped green onion, and grated yellow onion. Mix until they’re evenly distributed and the salad looks vibrant and inviting. Every spoonful should promise a satisfying mix of creamy pasta and crisp veggies.

Step 5: Chill and Serve

Cover the bowl and refrigerate your salad for at least 1 to 2 hours—overnight is even better if you can wait! Chilling lets all the flavors meld together, creating that authentic Hawaiian Macaroni Salad Recipe magic. Before serving, give it a gentle stir and top with a sprinkle of freshly chopped green onions for color and zing.

How to Serve Hawaiian Macaroni Salad Recipe

Garnishes

For that finishing touch, scatter more chopped green onion or a sprinkle of freshly cracked black pepper on top before serving. A few extra carrot shreds also add a sweet, colorful flourish. If you want to level up, a dusting of toasted sesame seeds can add a subtle nuttiness that pairs beautifully with the creamy salad.

Side Dishes

This Hawaiian Macaroni Salad Recipe shines next to classic barbecue fare—think grilled chicken, pulled pork, or sticky sweet ribs. It’s also right at home alongside fried fish, teriyaki beef, or simple steamed rice for a taste of Hawaii at home. The salad’s creamy, tangy flavors elevate whatever you serve them with, turning any meal into a feast.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving in individual jars for picnics, or scoop a mound onto a fresh bed of greens for a colorful lunch bowl. Hosting a luau? Present the salad in a hollowed-out pineapple or coconut shell for full-on tropical vibes. Don’t be surprised when your presentation earns as many compliments as the taste!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Hawaiian Macaroni Salad Recipe will keep beautifully in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. The flavors actually get better with time, so it’s a great make-ahead option for easy lunches or spontaneous gatherings.

Freezing

It’s best not to freeze this salad—mayo-based dressings and pasta don’t handle freezing and thawing well. The texture can end up mushy or separated, and that dreamy creaminess is an essential part of the Hawaiian Macaroni Salad Recipe experience.

Reheating

No reheating needed! This salad is always served chilled or at room temperature. Just give it a gentle stir before serving and, if it looks a little dry after resting, mix in a spoonful of extra mayo and milk to refresh its creamy texture.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely. While traditional Hawaiian Macaroni Salad Recipe uses elbow macaroni, other short pasta shapes like small shells or ditalini work just fine—just make sure the shape can hold the creamy dressing.

Is there a lighter version of this salad?

To lighten it up, swap some or all of the mayonnaise for Greek yogurt, and use low-fat milk. The result will be less rich but still delicious and creamy.

Do I have to include all the veggies listed?

Not at all—mix and match based on your preferences or what you have on hand. Carrots and celery are classic, but you can add diced bell peppers or peas for a fresh twist.

Can I make Hawaiian Macaroni Salad Recipe vegan?

Definitely. Use vegan mayo and plant-based milk for a fully vegan version; the dressing will still be delightfully creamy and flavorful.

Why do I need to chill the salad before serving?

Chilling isn’t just a formality—it’s key! Giving your Hawaiian Macaroni Salad Recipe time to rest lets the pasta absorb the dressing and all the flavors blend together, creating that signature taste and texture.

Final Thoughts

If you’re craving a side dish that delivers creamy goodness, bright flavor, and feels like a big, friendly hug from the islands, you’ve got to try this Hawaiian Macaroni Salad Recipe. It’s easy, absolutely delicious, and sure to win over any crowd—so grab your bowl and bring a little taste of aloha home today!

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