Hawaiian Macaroni Salad Recipe

This Hawaiian Macaroni Salad is a creamy, tangy, and slightly sweet side dish that’s a staple at luaus, barbecues, and potlucks. Packed with tender macaroni, crunchy vegetables, and a rich mayonnaise-based dressing, it’s the perfect complement to grilled meats or as part of a Hawaiian plate lunch.

Serves: 6-8

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Chill Time: 1 hour

Ingredients:

For the Salad:

• 12 oz elbow macaroni (or another short pasta)
• 1 cup mayonnaise (adjust to taste)
• 1/4 cup whole milk (or half-and-half for extra creaminess)
• 2 tbsp white vinegar
• 2 tbsp granulated sugar
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 2 large carrots , finely shredded
• 1 medium onion , finely diced
• 1 cup frozen peas , thawed
• 2 large hard-boiled eggs , chopped (optional)

Instructions:

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the macaroni and cook according to package instructions until al dente.
2. Drain the pasta and rinse it under cold water to stop the cooking process and remove excess starch. Drain well and set aside to cool.

Step 2: Make the Dressing

1. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, milk, white vinegar, sugar, salt, and black pepper until smooth and creamy.
2. Taste and adjust the seasoning, adding more sugar, salt, or vinegar as needed to balance the flavors
3. Step 3: Combine the Salad

1. Add the cooled macaroni, shredded carrots, diced onion, and thawed peas to the bowl with the dressing.
2. Toss everything together until the pasta and vegetables are evenly coated with the dressing.
3. If using, fold in the chopped hard-boiled eggs for added richness.

Step 4: Chill the Salad

1. Cover the salad with plastic wrap or transfer it to an airtight container.
2. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour (or up to overnight) to allow the flavors to meld and the salad to chill thoroughly.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

1. Give the salad a gentle stir before serving to redistribute the dressing.
2. Serve cold as a side dish alongside kalua pig, teriyaki chicken, or grilled burgers.

Tips for Success:

• Adjust sweetness: Add more or less sugar depending on your preference for sweetness.

  

• Add-ins: Customize with diced celery, bell peppers, or shredded cabbage for extra crunch.
• Make ahead: This salad tastes even better the next day as the flavors have time to develop. Just give it a good stir and add a splash of milk if it seems dry.
• Lighten it up: Substitute half of the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt or sour cream for a lighter version.

Nutritional Information (per serving, serves 8):

• Calories: ~280
• Protein: ~6g
• Carbohydrates: ~32g
• Fat: ~15g

Enjoy this Hawaiian Macaroni Salad as a creamy, comforting side dish that’s sure to be a hit at any gathering. Its tropical twist and satisfying texture make it a crowd-pleaser every time! 🍝🍍✨