This Hawaiian Macaroni Salad recipe is a classic side dish recipe that is full of tropical flavors. If you are looking for the perfect side dish for your next family gathering or cookout this is the recipe for you.
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❤️ Why you'll love this recipe
- This recipe will quickly become a family favorite because it's easy to make so you can spend less time in the kitchen and more time with your family.
- You only need simple ingredients to make this simple recipe so you don't have to worry about breaking your grocery budget.
- The creamy dressing is packed with tangy flavor.
- Macaroni salad with Hawain flavors pairs perfectly with so many Main Dishes.
🧾 Ingredient List
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- elbow macaroni noodles dry
- mayonnaise
- milk
- apple cider vinegar
- white sugar
- salt
- black pepper
- shredded carrot
- scallions
🍲 Equipment
🔪 Instructions
This is an overview of the recipe. The full instructions are below in the recipe card.
Step 1: Make the dressing, and add in the shredded carrots and green onions.
Step 2: Add the remaining ingredients and then cover and chill for 1 - 12 hours before serving.
📖 Variations
Do you want to change up this recipe? Here are some ways to vary the flavors of this recipe.
- Want to make this recipe a little healthier? Swap out the mayo for vegan mayo or plain Greek yogurt.
- I like to use dry elbow macaroni, however you can use any cooked pasta that you desire.
- Want to make this Hawaiian-style macaroni salad a little more filling? Add some leftover cooked ham or chicken to it for a protein boost.
👩🏻🍳 Eileen's Tips for Success
- Cook the pasta to al dente according to the package directions. Since different varieties have different cook times, check the box for specifics.
- If the sauce is a little thick add a little milk to thin it out, and get the creamy texture you enjoy.
- Make sure that your pasta is not hot when you add it to the dressing, you don't want it to continue to cook, so allow it to cool slightly.
❄️ Make ahead, storage, and freezer tips
Make ahead - This pasta salad can be made up to 12 hours in advance. The longer it chills the better it tastes.
Storage - Keep the pasta salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. If you don't have a lid that fits your large bowl, you can cover it with plastic wrap instead.
Freezing - I don't recommend freezing this salad as the texture of the pasta may change and become mushy when thawed.
Serving Suggestions
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📋 Frequently Asked Questions
This salad is believed to have been inspired by European potato salad. But, the history is unclear.
Pasta salad got its name because it's made with pasta instead of the traditional lettuce or other greens found in most salads.
Pasta salad can be served either warm or cold, depending on personal preference.
I recommend chilling the pasta salad in the refrigerator for a few hours before serving to allow the flavors to meld together.
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Eileen xo
If you click on the number of servings in the recipe card you can adjust the measurements up or down for the exact number of servings you need.
If you love this recipe please give it 5 stars! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
📖 Recipe
Hawaiian Macaroni Salad Recipe
As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases
Equipment Needed:
- As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases
Ingredients
- 8 ounces elbow macaroni noodles Note 1
- 1 ¼ cup mayonnaise
- ¼ cup milk
- 1 Tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup shredded carrot
- 4 scallions chopped, garnish
Instructions
- Boil your pasta according to the box directions. Drain and set aside.
- Whisk the mayonnaise, milk, vinegar, sugar, salt, and pepper in a large mixing bowl.
- Add the cooked pasta, carrots, and green onions. Stir to combine all ingredients.
- Cover and refrigerate for 1 hour to cool up to 12 hours. The longer this sits the better.
- Serve and enjoy.
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