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Recipe Hawaiian Mac Salad

Hawaiian Mac Salad is a creamy, tangy, and slightly sweet pasta salad that's a staple in Hawaiian plate lunches. This easy version delivers the same rich flavors with a simple preparation process. Perfect as a side dish for grilled meats, BBQs, or a refreshing addition to any potluck!
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour 10 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 25 minutes
Servings: 6 Servings
Course: Side Dish
Cuisine: Hawaiian
Calories: 350
Ingredients Equipment Method Video Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 2 Cups Elbow macaroni
  • ½ Cup Mayonnaise (preferably Best Foods or Hellmann’s)
  • ¼ Cup Whole milk
  • 1 Tbsp Apple cider vinegar
  • 1 Tsp Sugar
  • ½ Tsp Salt
  • ½ Tsp Black pepper
  • 1 Cup Shredded carrots
  • ½ Cup Finely chopped celery
  • ¼ Cup Finely chopped sweet onion
  • ½ Cup Frozen peas (optional)
  • ½ Cup Chopped ham or tuna (optional)

Equipment

  • Large pot
  • Colander
  • Large mixing bowl
  • Whisk
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Wooden spoon or spatula

Method
 

  1. Cook the Pasta:
    Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the macaroni and cook 2-3 minutes longer than al dente (about 10 minutes total) so the pasta is soft, not firm. Drain and rinse under cold water. Let cool completely.
  2. Make the Dressing:
    In a large mixing bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, milk, vinegar, sugar, salt, and pepper until smooth.
  3. Mix It Up:
    Add the cooled macaroni to the dressing. Stir in the shredded carrot, diced onion, celery, and pickle relish (if using) until everything is well coated.
  4. Chill for Flavor:
    Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour (but preferably 4+ hours) to let the flavors meld.
  5. Serve & Enjoy!
    Give it a final stir before serving. If it looks dry after chilling, mix in a splash of milk or a little more mayo. Serve cold with your favorite Hawaiian-style dishes!

Video

Notes

  • Overcooking the pasta is key! Traditional Hawaiian mac salad is extra soft, so don’t cook it al dente.
  • Let it chill! The flavors get better as it sits, so make it ahead of time if you can.
  • Want it creamier? Stir in more mayo before serving.
  • Customize it! Add chopped ham, hard-boiled eggs, or even a little tuna for a twist.