Description
This classic Hawaiian Macaroni Salad is a creamy, tangy side dish perfect for luau-style meals or potlucks. Featuring soft, well-cooked elbow macaroni combined with a rich mayonnaise and milk dressing, grated fresh carrots, and finely grated onion, it delivers a smooth, comforting texture and subtle sweetness balanced with apple cider vinegar’s bright acidity. Chilling for several hours enhances the flavors, making this salad a beloved Hawaiian comfort food staple.
Ingredients
Salad Ingredients
- 1 pound elbow macaroni
- 2 carrots, peeled and grated
- 1/4 cup finely grated onion
- Green onions (optional, for garnish)
Dressing Ingredients
- 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
- 2 1/2 cups mayonnaise (preferably Best Foods or Hellmann’s)
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook the Macaroni: In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the elbow macaroni according to package instructions until it is very soft, not al dente. This ensures the macaroni has the proper creamy texture traditional in Hawaiian macaroni salad. Drain well and return to the pot.
- Season the Warm Macaroni: While the macaroni is still warm, sprinkle it with the apple cider vinegar. Toss gently to combine, allowing the vinegar to lightly flavor and slightly tenderize the pasta as it cools. Let it cool for about 10 minutes.
- Prepare the Dressing: In a medium bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, whole milk, sugar, salt, and pepper until the dressing is smooth and thoroughly blended. Taste and adjust salt and pepper as needed to balance the flavors.
- Combine Ingredients: Add the grated carrots and finely grated onion to the cooled macaroni. Pour the prepared dressing over the mixture and stir until everything is evenly coated and integrated.
- Chill: Cover the salad tightly and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight. This chilling time thickens the dressing and allows the flavors to meld beautifully, creating the signature creamy and flavorful Hawaiian macaroni salad.
- Serve: Before serving, give the salad a good stir to re-incorporate any separated dressing. Adjust seasoning if needed. Garnish with sliced green onions for a fresh, decorative touch and enjoy this classic Hawaiian side dish.
Notes
- Cook macaroni until very soft, not al dente, for authentic texture.
- Using Best Foods or Hellmann’s mayonnaise gives the salad its classic creamy flavor.
- Letting the salad chill overnight improves the pasta’s absorption of dressing and overall taste.
- Optional green onions add a mild onion flavor and color contrast.
- Store leftover salad covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Hawaiian
