Hawaiian Macaroni Salad: A Creamy and Flavorful Island Favorite

Hawaiian Macaroni Salad is a beloved side dish in Hawaii, known for its creamy texture, simple ingredients, and slightly tangy flavor. It’s often served as part of a traditional Hawaiian plate lunch, alongside rice, meat (like kalua pork or teriyaki chicken), and other local favorites. This rich, comforting salad is made with cooked macaroni, mayonnaise, and a few basic seasonings, but its secret lies in its simplicity and creaminess.

Why You’ll Love Hawaiian Macaroni Salad

This dish is perfect for potlucks, picnics, or a comforting side at home. It’s easy to make, budget-friendly, and always a crowd-pleaser. The smooth, creamy texture combined with a slightly tangy and sweet dressing makes it a unique take on traditional macaroni salad. With its laid-back, comforting flavors, it’s a dish that instantly transports you to the islands.

Ingredients: Simple and Creamy

Here’s what you’ll need to make an authentic Hawaiian macaroni salad:

Elbow Macaroni: 2 cups, cooked until soft (not al dente) for that creamy texture.
Mayonnaise: 1 1/2 cups of full-fat mayonnaise for a rich, creamy dressing (Best Foods or Hellmann’s is the preferred brand in Hawaii).
Apple Cider Vinegar: 2 tablespoons for a slight tang and to balance the richness of the mayo.
Milk: 1/2 cup to thin the dressing and make it extra creamy.
Sugar: 1-2 tablespoons for a hint of sweetness.
Carrots: 1-2 medium carrots, grated, for added texture and a touch of sweetness.
Celery: 1-2 stalks, finely chopped, for crunch and freshness.
Green Onion: 1-2 green onions, thinly sliced, for a mild onion flavor (optional).
Salt and Pepper: To taste, for seasoning.

Step-by-Step Instructions: How to Make Hawaiian Macaroni Salad

Cook the Macaroni:

Cook the elbow macaroni in salted boiling water according to the package instructions, but cook it slightly longer than al dente (soft but not mushy). Drain the pasta well and allow it to cool slightly.

Season the Macaroni:

While the macaroni is still warm, toss it with the apple cider vinegar. This helps the pasta absorb the flavor and gives the salad a slight tang. Let it cool completely.

Make the Dressing:

In a large bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, milk, sugar, salt, and pepper. Adjust the sugar and seasoning to taste, depending on how sweet or tangy you want the dressing.

Add the Vegetables:

Stir in the grated carrots, chopped celery, and green onions (if using) into the dressing mixture.

Combine the Macaroni and Dressing:

Add the cooled macaroni to the dressing and vegetables. Stir everything together until the macaroni is well coated with the creamy dressing.

Chill the Salad:

Cover the salad and refrigerate it for at least 1-2 hours before serving. This allows the flavors to meld and the salad to become extra creamy. For best results, let it chill overnight.

Serve:

Stir the salad before serving, and adjust the seasoning if needed. Serve it cold alongside your favorite Hawaiian dishes or BBQ.

Variations and Tips

Make it Creamier: If the salad dries out a bit after chilling, stir in a little more mayonnaise or milk to restore its creamy texture.
Add Protein: For a heartier version, add cubed ham, shredded chicken, or tuna.
Sweetness Level: The amount of sugar in the dressing can be adjusted to suit your preference. Some people prefer it slightly sweeter, while others like it more tangy.
Vegetable Options: You can also add diced cucumbers or peas for extra freshness and texture.

Serving Suggestions

Hawaiian macaroni salad is a versatile side dish that pairs perfectly with:

Hawaiian Plate Lunch: Serve with grilled teriyaki chicken, kalua pork, or loco moco.
BBQ: It’s an ideal side dish for any BBQ meal, from burgers and hot dogs to ribs and grilled veggies.
Picnics or Potlucks: This salad travels well and is always a hit at outdoor gatherings.

Conclusion: A Creamy Island Classic

Hawaiian Macaroni Salad is a comforting, easy-to-make side dish that’s both creamy and refreshing. The soft, flavorful pasta mixed with a creamy dressing, crunchy vegetables, and a hint of sweetness makes it a dish that everyone will love. Whether you’re serving it at a family barbecue, picnic, or as part of a traditional Hawaiian plate lunch, this macaroni salad is sure to become a favorite!