Description
Hawaiian Mac Salad is a classic, creamy side dish that’s beloved in Hawaii and perfect for any gathering. This simple recipe features elbow macaroni, a tangy mayo-based dressing, diced carrots, and celery, all coming together to create a comforting and flavorful dish. It’s a perfect addition to BBQs, picnics, or family dinners, offering a refreshing balance to heartier main courses. The creamy texture and mild sweetness from the vegetables make it a crowd-pleaser, and with just a few basic ingredients, anyone can make this delicious salad right at home.
Ingredients
- 2 cups elbow macaroni (uncooked)
- 1 cup mayonnaise (preferably full-fat for creaminess)
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar (for a touch of tang)
- 1/2 cup milk (adjust for dressing consistency)
- 1/2 cup grated carrots (for sweetness and color)
- 1/4 cup finely chopped celery (for crunch)
- 1/4 cup finely chopped onion (optional, for added flavor)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper (or to taste)
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder (optional, for a hint of flavor)
- 1/4 teaspoon mustard powder (optional, for extra tanginess)
- 1/2 cup frozen peas (optional, for a pop of color and sweetness)
- 1/4 cup chopped boiled eggs (optional, for extra protein and richness)
Instructions
- Cook the macaroni:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook according to package directions until al dente (firm to the bite). Be careful not to overcook the pasta.
- Drain the pasta and rinse it under cold water to stop the cooking process. Allow it to cool completely.
- Prepare the vegetables:
- While the pasta is cooling, grate the carrots and finely chop the celery and onion (if using). If you’re adding peas or hard-boiled eggs, prepare them as well.
- Make the dressing:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, milk, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and mustard powder (if using). Stir until the dressing is smooth and well combined.
- Combine the ingredients:
- Once the pasta has cooled, add it to the bowl with the dressing. Toss the pasta in the dressing to ensure it’s evenly coated.
- Add the grated carrots, chopped celery, onion, peas, and any other optional ingredients like chopped boiled eggs.
- Stir everything together gently until well mixed.
- Chill the salad:
- Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate the salad for at least 1 hour, or preferably overnight. Chilling allows the flavors to meld together, enhancing the overall taste.
- Taste and adjust:
- Before serving, give the salad a taste. If needed, add a little more salt, pepper, or vinegar to adjust the flavor to your liking.
- Serve:
- Serve the Hawaiian Mac Salad cold as a delicious side dish to your favorite BBQs, picnics, or family dinners.
Notes
- Pasta Tip: For the best texture, avoid overcooking the macaroni. It should be slightly firm to ensure it holds up well when mixed with the dressing.
- Mayonnaise: While regular mayo is the most common choice, you can use light mayo for a lighter version or even a combination of mayo and Greek yogurt for a tangier, slightly healthier alternative.
- Vinegar: Apple cider vinegar adds a nice tang, but white vinegar or lemon juice can also be used if preferred.
- Adjusting Consistency: If the dressing becomes too thick after chilling, you can add a little more milk or vinegar to loosen it up to your desired consistency.
- Optional Ingredients: Feel free to customize the salad to your taste! Adding diced pickles, chopped green onions, or cubed ham can bring in extra flavor and texture. Boiled eggs also provide a rich, creamy element that some people love in their mac salad.
- Make Ahead: This salad actually tastes better the next day, as the flavors continue to develop and meld. It’s a perfect dish to prepare in advance for parties or gatherings.
- Storage: Store any leftover mac salad in an airtight container in the fridge. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days.
- Serving Ideas: Hawaiian Mac Salad pairs wonderfully with grilled meats, BBQ chicken, ribs, or even as a main dish on a hot day. It’s the perfect side for outdoor picnics and family gatherings!
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Chill Time: 1 hour
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Cuisine: Hawaiian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: Per Serving
- Calories: 300 kcal
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 400mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 25mg
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