Hawaiian Macaroni Salad (Mac Salad)
Ingredients
- 8 ounces dry elbow macaroni
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 carrot
peeled and grated
- 2 tablespoons grated onion)
(it will be liquidy
- 1 ¼ cups Best Foods or Hellman’s mayonnaise)
(I use Light Hellman's—same great taste, less calories!
- 2 tablespoons milk
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper
Directions
- 1
In a pot of boiling salted water, cook the macaroni according to package directions (see notes). Drain and transfer to a mixing bowl. Sprinkle the apple cider vinegar over the top, add the carrot and onion, stir, and let it cool slightly, about 10 to 15 minutes.
- 2
In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, milk, and sugar. Stir the mayonnaise mixture into the macaroni, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour or overnight. Gently stir before serving, and if needed thin it out with a teaspoon or two of milk or a little more mayo.
Hawaiian Macaroni Salad (Mac Salad)
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About this Recipe
Craving the creamy, tangy goodness that makes a Hawaiian plate lunch truly complete? This classic Hawaiian Macaroni Salad (Mac Salad) is exactly what you need. It’s the perfect, irresistible side dish, delivering authentic island flavors right to your table.
Why This Mac Salad Works
What makes this Mac Salad a cut above is its perfectly balanced dressing, starring the beloved Best Foods or Hellman’s mayonnaise that’s essential for that authentic taste. The addition of grated carrot and onion provides subtle sweetness and a mild aromatic kick, blending seamlessly into the rich, smooth sauce. A touch of apple cider vinegar and sugar ensures that signature tangy-sweet profile that complements almost any main course.
What to Expect
Prepare for a dish that is wonderfully creamy, with perfectly tender elbow macaroni coated in a rich, flavorful dressing. You’ll taste a harmonious blend of tanginess from the vinegar, a subtle sweetness, and the savory depth of the mayonnaise, brightened by the fresh grated vegetables. This Mac Salad is designed to be a refreshing, substantial, and utterly satisfying counterpart to heartier meals, best served thoroughly chilled to allow all those delightful flavors to meld beautifully.
Customization & Variations
For those looking to lighten things up without sacrificing flavor, the recipe creator suggests using Light Hellman's mayonnaise—it delivers the same great taste with fewer calories. You can also adjust the amount of apple cider vinegar or sugar slightly to suit your personal preference for tanginess or sweetness.
Serving & Context
This Hawaiian Mac Salad is a quintessential addition to any backyard barbecue, potluck, or, of course, a traditional Hawaiian plate lunch. Serve it alongside grilled chicken, kalua pig, or your favorite main dish for a truly satisfying meal.