Hawaiian Macaroni Salad
Ingredients
- 1 ½ cdry elbow pasta
- 1 ½ tbspapple cider vinegar
- 1 ¼ cgrated carrots
- ½ cdiced celery
- ¾ cmayo
- ¼ chalf and half
- 2 tbspgrated onion
- 1 tsplight brown sugar
- ½ tspblack pepper
- ½ tspsalt
Directions
- 1
Cook pasta according to package directions, drain and mix in the apple cider vinegar. Set aside and allow to cool. In a separate bowl, mix together dressing ingredients.
- 2
Next combine the pasta and the salad ingredients, top with the dressing and toss evenly. Refrigerate for 2 hours, stir well before serving.
Hawaiian Macaroni Salad
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About this Recipe
The Ultimate Creamy Hawaiian Macaroni Salad Recipe
Transport your taste buds straight to the islands with this authentic Hawaiian Macaroni Salad! More than just a simple pasta salad, this beloved side dish is a staple at every Hawaiian plate lunch, luau, and backyard barbecue. Known for its wonderfully creamy, slightly tangy, and subtly sweet dressing, it's the perfect complement to savory grilled meats and kalua pig.
Our easy salad recipe captures that classic aloha spirit with minimal effort. We combine tender elbow pasta with finely grated carrots and crisp celery, all bound together by an unbelievably rich and flavorful dressing. What makes this dressing so special? It's a perfect blend of creamy mayo, a touch of half and half for silkiness, the bright tang of apple cider vinegar, and a hint of grated onion and brown sugar to round out the flavors. This combination creates that distinctive, irresistible taste that sets Hawaiian Mac Salad apart from any other pasta salad.
Tips for the Perfect Island-Style Side
- Don't Overcook Your Pasta: Cook your elbow macaroni just to al dente. This ensures it holds its shape and doesn't get mushy when mixed with the creamy dressing.
- Chill Time is Key: While tempting to dig in immediately, this Hawaiian Macaroni Salad truly shines after a few hours in the refrigerator. The flavors meld beautifully, and the pasta fully absorbs the dressing, resulting in a richer, creamier texture.
- Serving Suggestions: This versatile side dish is a must-have with grilled chicken, kalbi ribs, pulled pork, or even alongside a simple burger. It's also fantastic for potlucks, picnics, and any gathering where you want a taste of the tropics.
This recipe is designed to be straightforward yet deliver maximum flavor, making it a go-to for a delicious and satisfying Hawaiian Macaroni Salad experience.