Authentic Hawaiian Macaroni Salad is a beloved side dish that perfectly captures the essence of island comfort food. Imagine a creamy, tangy salad with tender elbow macaroni, a rich mayonnaise dressing, and just the right amount of sweetness. This is the kind of macaroni salad you find at plate lunch spots all over Hawaii, served alongside sticky rice and flavorful meats like kalua pork or teriyaki chicken. It’s deceptively simple, yet incredibly satisfying—a dish that’s as much about texture as it is about flavor. Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue or just craving a taste of the islands, this macaroni salad is a must-try.

Photo byE Kent

The beauty of Authentic Hawaiian Macaroni Salad lies in its straightforward ingredients and its perfectly balanced dressing. The key to its signature taste and texture is cooking the macaroni until it’s just past al dente, allowing it to absorb the creamy dressing and become wonderfully soft. The dressing itself is a blend of mayonnaise, a touch of vinegar, and a bit of sugar, creating a tangy, slightly sweet sauce that clings to every noodle. Some recipes add a bit of grated carrot or onion for extra flavor and crunch, but the heart of this dish is in its simplicity—no fancy ingredients, just classic flavors that come together in a truly comforting way.

What makes this Hawaiian Macaroni Salad so appealing is its versatility. It’s the perfect side dish for a variety of meals, whether you’re serving it with grilled meats, seafood, or even just on its own. It’s also incredibly easy to make ahead, allowing the flavors to meld together beautifully in the refrigerator before serving. Whether you’re recreating a Hawaiian plate lunch or just looking for a simple, delicious side dish, this macaroni salad delivers a taste of the islands with every bite.

Serving Suggestions:

- Serve Hawaiian Macaroni Salad alongside grilled teriyaki chicken, kalua pork, or fresh seafood for a classic island-style meal.

- Pair it with burgers, hot dogs, or barbecue ribs at your next cookout for a creamy, tangy side dish that everyone will love.

- Add a scoop of the salad to a plate lunch with rice and your favorite protein for an authentic Hawaiian experience.

- Enjoy it on its own as a light lunch or snack, garnished with a sprinkle of black pepper or a bit of chopped green onion.

- For a fun twist, mix in some diced ham, pineapple chunks, or peas to add a bit of extra flavor and texture.

Nutritional Information (per serving, based on 8 servings):

• • - Calories: 310
  • - Total Fat: 22g
  • - Saturated Fat: 3g
  • - Cholesterol: 10mg
  • - Sodium: 400mg
  • - Total Carbohydrates: 24g
  • - Dietary Fiber: 1g
  • - Sugars: 3g
  • - Protein: 4g

Photo byE Kent

Storage Information:

- Store any leftover macaroni salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

- For best results, give the salad a good stir before serving to re-incorporate the dressing.

- If the salad becomes too thick after refrigeration, you can add a splash of milk or a bit more mayonnaise to restore its creamy texture.

Hawaiian Macaroni Salad Recipe

Ingredients:

• - 2 cups elbow macaroni
• - 1/2 cup grated carrot
• - 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
• - 1 1/2 cups mayonnaise (preferably Best Foods or Hellmann’s)
• - 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
• - 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
• - 1/2 teaspoon salt
• - 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions:

1. Cook the Macaroni:

   - Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook until very soft, about 2 minutes past al dente. Drain the macaroni and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process.

2. Prepare the Dressing:

   - In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, sugar, salt, and black pepper until smooth and well combined.

3. Combine and Mix:

   - Add the drained macaroni, grated carrot, and chopped onion to the dressing. Stir until the macaroni is evenly coated with the dressing.

   - Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt, pepper, or sugar as needed.

4. Chill and Serve:

   - Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or overnight, to allow the flavors to meld together.

   - Before serving, give the salad a good stir and adjust the consistency with a bit of milk if needed.

Enjoy your Hawaiian Macaroni Salad, a creamy and tangy dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With its simple ingredients and classic flavors, this salad is sure to bring a taste of the islands to your table.