Name: The Hawaiian Macaroni Salad That Will Make You Feel Like You’re on Vacation
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 1 h 15 min
Cuisine: Hawaiian
Ingredients: 8 ounces elbow macaroni noodles; 1⅛ cup mayonnaise (preferably Best Foods or Hellmann’s for authenticity); 1 teaspoon salt; ¼ cup milk; ½ cup shredded carrots; ¼ cup finely chopped onions; ¼ cup crushed pineapple (for a sweeter twist); ¼ cup chopped celery; ½ teaspoon black pepper

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Oh, where do I even begin with this Hawaiian Macaroni Salad? It’s like the perfect sunny day in a bowl! Creamy, tangy, with a touch of sweetness, and just the right amount of crunch—trust me, this one’s a game-changer. Whether you’re hosting a tropical-themed BBQ or just craving something delicious to brighten up your day, this dish will have everyone coming back for seconds. And honestly, it’s so easy to make, you might just find yourself whipping it up on repeat!

Why You’ll Love Hawaiian Macaroni Salad

This isn’t just any macaroni salad. It’s a bowl of comfort, flavor, and a little bit of island sunshine. Here’s why you’ll fall in love with it:

Versatile

Whether it’s a weeknight dinner, a potluck, or a backyard party, this salad works for every occasion. Plus, it’s one of those dishes that’s just as comforting on a rainy day as it is at a summer picnic. You’re going to want to make it all year long.

Budget-Friendly

No need to splurge on anything fancy. The ingredients are simple and affordable, yet they come together to make something totally irresistible. So, you can feed a crowd without breaking the bank!

Quick and Easy

This is the kind of recipe that even if you’ve never cooked before, you’ll still feel like a pro. No long prep times or complicated techniques—just a handful of steps that lead to pure deliciousness.

Customizable

Want a little extra kick? Toss in some chopped jalapeños! Or keep it simple with the classic flavors. The beauty of this salad is that it’s totally adaptable to your taste buds.

Crowd-Pleasing

The best part? Everyone loves it! Whether you’re feeding kids or adults, Hawaiian Macaroni Salad is always a hit. It’s that dish you serve at gatherings and watch disappear in minutes.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to bring this tropical beauty to life:

Macaroni

The base of the salad, and where all that creamy goodness sticks.

Mayonnaise

This is where the magic happens. You’ll need a generous amount to make that rich, creamy texture we’re all craving.

Apple Cider Vinegar

A splash of this tangy goodness brings everything together and gives the salad that perfect balance.

Pineapple

The surprise ingredient that adds a burst of sweetness and a little tropical flair.

Carrots

For crunch and a bit of color—plus, they’ll soak up the dressing beautifully.

Celery

For that extra bite and freshness that helps cut through the creamy richness.

Sweet Pickles

A little tang and sweetness from the pickles will have you smiling with every bite.

Onion

A touch of finely chopped onion gives the salad just the right amount of savory depth.

Salt & Pepper

For that perfect seasoning balance.

(Note: the full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)

Instructions

Ready to make this flavor-packed dish? Let’s dive right in!

Cook the Macaroni

Start by boiling the macaroni in salted water. Once it’s perfectly al dente (about 8-10 minutes), drain it and give it a quick rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process. Set it aside to cool.

Mix the Dressing

In a large bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, and a pinch of salt and pepper. This is the creamy base that will hold everything together.

Add the Fresh Ingredients

Now, toss in the chopped pineapple, carrots, celery, sweet pickles, and onion. Give everything a gentle stir to combine.

Combine the Macaroni and Dressing

Add the cooled macaroni to the bowl with the dressing and stir until it’s well coated. Don’t rush this step—make sure every little elbow of pasta is covered with that creamy goodness.

Chill and Let the Flavors Marry

Cover the bowl and let the salad chill in the fridge for at least an hour (or overnight if you can wait that long). The longer it sits, the more those flavors develop.

Serve and Enjoy!

When you’re ready to serve, give it one last stir and enjoy! Whether it’s the star of the show or just a side dish, Hawaiian Macaroni Salad is sure to impress.

How to Serve Hawaiian Macaroni Salad

This salad is perfect on its own, but if you’re looking to round out the meal, here are some ideas for what to serve alongside it:

Grilled Meat

Pair it with grilled chicken, BBQ ribs, or even some juicy burgers. The creamy salad is the perfect balance to smoky, charred flavors.

Fresh Greens

A simple green salad with a zesty vinaigrette will add a nice freshness to your meal.

Fruit Salad

If you want to keep that tropical vibe going, a fruit salad made with fresh pineapple, mango, and coconut would pair beautifully.

Chips and Dip

Some crispy chips or a side of guacamole always makes a nice accompaniment to a creamy dish like this.

Additional Tips

Prep Ahead

Want to save time on the day of your event? You can chop your veggies and cook the macaroni the night before, so all you have to do is mix and chill when it’s time to assemble.

Make it Your Own

Feeling adventurous? Add a handful of chopped fresh herbs, like cilantro or parsley, for a pop of color and flavor. Or try a splash of lime juice for a tangy twist.

Storage Tips

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The salad keeps well and only gets better as it sits!

Double the Batch

This recipe is perfect for making ahead or feeding a crowd. Double it, and you’ll have plenty to go around!

FAQ Section

Q1: Can I substitute the mayonnaise with something else?

A1: Yes! If you’re not a mayo fan, try Greek yogurt or sour cream for a lighter, tangy option. It’ll change the flavor slightly but still be delicious.

Q2: Can I make this dish ahead of time?

A2: Absolutely! In fact, it tastes even better the next day once the flavors have had a chance to blend together.

Q3: How do I store leftovers?

A3: Store the salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. It’s best enjoyed chilled, so just give it a quick stir before serving again.

Q4: Can I freeze this dish?

A4: I wouldn’t recommend freezing this salad because the mayonnaise can separate and change the texture. Better to enjoy it fresh or store it in the fridge!

Q5: Can I double the recipe?

A5: Of course! Just make sure you have a large enough bowl to mix everything, and if you’re making a big batch for a party, it’s sure to disappear fast.

Q6: What side dishes go well with this recipe?

A6: A grilled veggie platter, some juicy BBQ skewers, or even a simple tomato salad would pair wonderfully with Hawaiian Macaroni Salad.

Q7: Is this recipe suitable for a gluten-free diet?

A7: Yes! Just make sure to use gluten-free macaroni, and you’re all set for a gluten-free version of this salad.

Q8: How can I make this dish healthier?

A8: You can try using low-fat mayo or Greek yogurt instead of regular mayo for a lighter version, and adding extra veggies like bell peppers or cucumbers for a nutrient boost.

Q9: What’s the best cookware to use for this recipe?

A9: A large mixing bowl is all you need to make this dish. You’ll want enough space to stir everything together without making a mess!

Conclusion

This Hawaiian Macaroni Salad is a total crowd-pleaser that’s sure to make any meal feel like a celebration. With its creamy, tangy, and slightly sweet flavor profile, it’s the perfect balance of comfort and freshness. Whether you’re enjoying it on your own or sharing it with friends and family, trust me—this dish is one you’ll want to make again and again. So go ahead, dig in, and let the flavors transport you straight to a sunny beachside getaway. Enjoy!