Name: Hawaiian Macaroni Salad
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 1 h
Cuisine: Hawaiian
Ingredients: 2 cups elbow macaroni; 1 cup mayonnaise; 3 tablespoons apple cider vinegar; 1 tablespoon sugar; 1 cup shredded carrots; 1 cup diced celery; 4 green onions, chopped; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 hard-boiled eggs (optional)

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Hawaiian Macaroni Salad is a comforting dish that brings a taste of the islands right to your table. This recipe embodies the essence of summer gatherings and potlucks, where family and friends come together to savor delicious food. Its creamy texture and vibrant flavors create a delightful medley that can transport you to sunny beaches with every bite.

This dish is not only easy to prepare but also a nostalgic favorite that evokes memories of warm barbecues and festive celebrations. With simple ingredients and a step-by-step approach, you’ll find that making this classic salad is not only rewarding but also a breeze.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

One of the best things about Hawaiian Macaroni Salad is its quick preparation. In less than an hour, you’ll have a creamy, savory dish that pairs wonderfully with grilled meats, making it perfect for barbecues, picnics, or potlucks.

Thanks to its minimal ingredients, this dish is not only budget-friendly but also highly adaptable. It’s a crowd-pleaser and appeals to both kids and adults alike. Plus, the option to add hard-boiled eggs gives you the flexibility to mix in a protein boost.

Ingredients

2 cups elbow macaroni – These small pasta shapes provide the ideal foundation for the salad, offering a delightful chewiness that captures the creamy dressing.
1 cup mayonnaise – The star ingredient! This creates the creamy base that binds all the elements together, ensuring every bite is rich and indulgent.
3 tablespoons apple cider vinegar – Adding a tangy kick that balances the creaminess of the mayonnaise with its subtle sweetness.
1 tablespoon sugar – A hint of sweetness that complements the savory notes, making the salad sing with flavor.
1 cup shredded carrots – These add a burst of color and a slight crunch, which enhances the overall texture of the dish.
1 cup diced celery – Brings an aromatic crispness that contrasts beautifully with the creaminess.
4 green onions, chopped – Adds a fresh and mild onion flavor that brightens the dish.
Salt and pepper to taste – Essential seasonings that enhance all the flavors.
2 hard-boiled eggs (optional) – For those looking to add a protein element, these eggs bring an extra touch of richness and nutrition.

Step-by-Step Directions

Cook the Pasta: Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once boiling, add the elbow macaroni and cook until al dente, approximately 8 to 10 minutes. You want the pasta to be tender but still have a slight bite.
Drain and Cool: Once cooked, drain the macaroni in a colander and rinse it under cold water. This stops the cooking process and keeps the pasta from becoming mushy.
Prepare the Dressing: In a mixing bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, sugar, salt, and pepper until the mixture is smooth. This creamy dressing is what makes the salad truly flavorful.
Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the cooked macaroni with shredded carrots, diced celery, and chopped green onions. If you’re using hard-boiled eggs, chop them up and add them to the mix.
Toss and Coat: Pour the dressing over the pasta mixture and gently fold until everything is evenly coated. You want to ensure that each piece is enveloped in that creamy goodness.
Chill: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate for at least one hour before serving. This chilling time allows the flavors to meld together beautifully.

Tips & Tricks

Pasta Choice: While elbow macaroni is traditional, feel free to use other small pasta shapes like shells or fusilli for a unique twist.
Make Ahead: This salad can be made a day in advance, allowing the flavors to deepen and intensify.
Fresh Herbs: Consider adding chopped parsley or dill for an herbaceous touch.

Serving Suggestions & Pairings

Hawaiian Macaroni Salad pairs wonderfully with grilled meats, making it an excellent side for barbecues and summer gatherings. Try serving it alongside BBQ chicken, burgers, or ribs for a balanced meal. It’s also delightful on its own as a light lunch option. For special occasions, consider complementing it with tropical fruit salads or grilled vegetable skewers to create a festive and colorful spread.

Nutritional Information

A serving size of the Hawaiian Macaroni Salad (approximately 1 cup) typically contains around 250-300 calories. The salad provides a good balance of carbohydrates, with a small amount of protein from the eggs if added, and healthy fats from the mayonnaise. However, it’s advisable to enjoy this dish in moderation, especially if you’re watching your calorie intake.

Storing Tips & Variations

To store leftover Hawaiian Macaroni Salad, keep it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It should stay fresh for about 3-4 days. If you opt to prepare a larger batch for an event, consider freezing it. However, keep in mind that the texture may change once thawed. For variations, you can incorporate diced bell peppers, peas, or even pineapple chunks for an extra sweet twist.

Conclusion

Hawaiian Macaroni Salad is a delightful, comforting dish that everyone should try making at least once. Its creamy texture and vibrant flavors are perfect for any gathering or as an easy family meal. Whether you’re a culinary novice or an experienced home cook, this easy-to-follow recipe is sure to impress. Don’t hesitate to share your experiences and variations of this classic salad—you might inspire someone else to bring a taste of Hawaii into their home!

FAQs

Can I use low-fat mayonnaise?
Absolutely! Low-fat mayonnaise can be substituted without compromising too much on flavor, making it a lighter option if desired.
Is it possible to make this salad vegan?
Yes! You can use a vegan mayonnaise alternative to make this recipe completely plant-based and still creamy.
How long should I let it chill in the refrigerator?
For the best flavor, refrigerate for at least one hour before serving, but it can be left overnight for even better taste.
Can I use different vegetables?
Yes, feel free to mix in vegetables you enjoy! Diced bell peppers, peas, or even corn can add a nice twist.
What’s the best way to serve this dish?
Hawaiian Macaroni Salad is best served cold, straight from the fridge, especially on warm days. For gatherings, consider serving in a large bowl and let guests help themselves!