Description
This Authentic Hawaiian Macaroni Salad is a creamy, comforting side dish that perfectly complements traditional Hawaiian plate lunches. Featuring tender macaroni mixed with shredded carrots, a touch of onion, and a rich mayonnaise-based dressing with a hint of apple cider vinegar, this recipe promises a deliciously tangy and creamy texture. It’s easy to prepare ahead and tastes best when chilled overnight, making it a staple for gatherings and casual meals alike.
Ingredients
Scale
Pasta
- 1 pound macaroni
Vegetables
- 2 carrots, shredded
- ¼ cup shredded onion (optional)
Dressing
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 2 ½ cups mayonnaise (Best Foods or Hellman’s mayonnaise, no substitutes)
- ¼ cup milk
- 2 teaspoons sugar
Seasoning
- Kosher salt, to taste
- Ground black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Cook Macaroni: Prepare the macaroni according to the package directions until al dente. Drain and rinse thoroughly under cold water until the pasta is completely cooled. Drain well to remove excess water and transfer the macaroni into a large mixing bowl.
- Add Vegetables and Vinegar: Sprinkle apple cider vinegar over the cooled macaroni. Add the shredded carrots and optional shredded onion. Toss all the ingredients together until they are evenly combined. Place the bowl in the refrigerator and chill for 15 minutes to let the flavors meld and the mixture cool further.
- Prepare Dressing: In a separate small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, milk, and sugar until smooth and fully blended. This creamy dressing forms the flavorful base of the salad.
- Combine Salad: Fold the prepared dressing gently into the macaroni mixture, ensuring every noodle is evenly coated. Season with kosher salt and ground black pepper to your taste preferences, mixing well to distribute the seasoning.
- Chill: Cover the salad with a lid or plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, ideally overnight. This resting period allows the salad to thicken and the flavors to fully develop.
- Final Touch: Before serving, give the salad a gentle stir to re-incorporate any settled ingredients. If the salad seems too thick, add a small amount of milk—no more than one or two tablespoons—to reach your desired consistency.
Notes
- For authentic flavor, use Best Foods or Hellman’s mayonnaise—no substitutes recommended.
- The onion is optional, but it adds a subtle bite and crunch.
- Chilling the salad overnight enhances flavor and texture;
- Adjust the milk quantity to get your preferred creaminess without thinning the salad too much.
- Use kosher salt for seasoning as its texture allows better control over saltiness.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 8–10 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Hawaiian
Keywords: Hawaiian macaroni salad, creamy macaroni salad, Hawaiian side dish, macaroni salad recipe, picnic salad, potluck side
