Name: Hawaiian Macaroni Salad
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: Hawaiian
Ingredients: 8 ounces dried elbow macaroni (about 1 2/3 cups); 1 small carrot, peeled and grated; 2 medium scallions, finely sliced; 1/4 small yellow onion, finely grated or minced; 1 cup mayonnaise (preferably Best Foods or Hellmann’s); 2 tablespoons milk; 1 tablespoon + 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar; 1 tablespoon + 1 teaspoon dill pickle brine; 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt; 1/4 teaspoon granulated garlic; 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

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Hawaiian Macaroni Salad is a beloved dish that has become a staple at potlucks, BBQs, and family gatherings. This creamy and tangy salad blends soft elbow macaroni with a sweet and savory dressing made from mayonnaise, vinegar, and pickle brine, delivering a delightful balance of flavors. It’s the perfect side dish to accompany grilled meats, seafood, or as part of a picnic spread. The addition of fresh carrots and scallions adds a subtle crunch and burst of color, while the dill pickle brine gives the salad a distinct, addictive tang. Whether you’ve had it at a Hawaiian-themed party or discovered it during your travels, this macaroni salad is sure to become one of your favorite go-to recipes. Easy to prepare, flavorful, and satisfying, Hawaiian Macaroni Salad can be customized to suit your taste, making it a versatile addition to any meal. So gather your ingredients, and let’s get ready to whip up this tasty and creamy treat!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Deliciously Creamy Texture

Hawaiian Macaroni Salad boasts a rich, creamy texture thanks to the mayonnaise and milk dressing, making it irresistibly smooth and comforting.

2. Simple Ingredients

With just a handful of everyday ingredients like elbow macaroni, mayonnaise, and a touch of pickle brine, you can create a dish that’s both simple and flavorful.

3. Customizable to Your Taste

You can easily adjust the salad by adding other ingredients like diced ham, peas, or extra vegetables, allowing you to make it uniquely yours.

4. Perfect for Any Occasion

Whether it’s a casual BBQ, a holiday dinner, or a picnic in the park, this salad is versatile enough to fit any event or meal.

5. Quick and Easy to Prepare

Ready in under 30 minutes, Hawaiian Macaroni Salad is the ideal dish when you need a tasty, hassle-free side that doesn’t require a lot of time or effort.

Ingredients

Small carrot
Medium scallions
Dried elbow macaroni
Small yellow onion
Mayonnaise (preferably Best Foods or Hellman’s)
Milk
Apple cider vinegar
Dill pickle brine
Kosher salt
Granulated garlic
Freshly ground black pepper

Variations

Add Protein: For a heartier salad, consider adding diced ham, cooked chicken, or even shrimp.
Veggie Boost: Toss in peas, diced bell peppers, or celery for added color and texture.
Spicy Twist: For a spicy kick, add finely chopped jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the dressing.
Vegan Version: Swap the mayonnaise for a vegan mayo alternative and use non-dairy milk for a plant-based option.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse the pasta under cold water to stop the cooking process. Set aside to cool.

Step 2: Prepare the Vegetables

While the pasta is cooling, peel and grate the carrot. Slice the scallions and finely chop the yellow onion. Set the vegetables aside.

Step 3: Make the Dressing

In a large mixing bowl, combine the mayonnaise, milk, apple cider vinegar, dill pickle brine, kosher salt, granulated garlic, and black pepper. Stir until the dressing is smooth and well combined.

Step 4: Assemble the Salad

Add the cooled pasta to the dressing and gently stir to coat. Then, fold in the grated carrot, sliced scallions, and chopped onion.

Step 5: Chill and Serve

Cover the salad and refrigerate for at least an hour to let the flavors meld together. For the best results, chill it overnight.

Tips for Making the Recipe

Chill for Flavor: Let the salad sit in the fridge for a few hours or overnight. This allows the flavors to fully develop and blend together.
Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Be sure to cook the pasta just until al dente to prevent it from becoming mushy when mixed with the dressing.
Taste and Adjust: Before serving, taste the salad and adjust the seasoning if necessary, adding more salt, pepper, or vinegar for extra tang.
Use a Good Quality Mayo: The mayo is a key ingredient, so make sure to use a high-quality brand like Best Foods or Hellman’s for the best flavor.
Keep the Dressing Creamy: If the salad seems too dry after chilling, you can stir in a bit more mayo or a splash of milk to get it to your desired consistency.

How to Serve

Hawaiian Macaroni Salad is best served cold, making it a perfect side dish for summer barbecues or picnics. Pair it with grilled meats, seafood, or a hearty sandwich for a complete meal. It also works wonderfully as a side dish for holiday gatherings, family reunions, or any casual event where you want a crowd-pleaser.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover Hawaiian Macaroni Salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep for up to 3 days. The flavors may continue to develop and taste even better the next day.

Freezing

It’s not recommended to freeze this salad, as the mayonnaise-based dressing may separate or become watery when thawed.

Reheating

Hawaiian Macaroni Salad is best served cold, so there’s no need to reheat. Just take it out of the fridge about 15 minutes before serving to bring it to a slightly warmer temperature if preferred.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of pasta for this recipe?

Yes! You can substitute elbow macaroni with any short pasta like penne, fusilli, or rotini.

2. Can I make this recipe vegan?

Yes, by using vegan mayonnaise and non-dairy milk, you can easily make this salad vegan.

3. How long should I chill the salad?

For the best flavor, chill the salad for at least 1 hour, but overnight is ideal.

4. Can I add more vegetables to this recipe?

Definitely! Feel free to add other veggies such as peas, bell peppers, or celery for extra crunch and flavor.

5. Can I make this recipe without dill pickle brine?

Yes, you can substitute the dill pickle brine with a splash of lemon juice or more apple cider vinegar for a tangy flavor.

6. Can I use a different type of vinegar?

Apple cider vinegar works best for its mild tang, but you can also use white vinegar or rice vinegar if needed.

7. What kind of mayonnaise is best for this recipe?

A rich and creamy mayonnaise like Best Foods or Hellman’s is recommended, as it adds a smooth, flavorful base to the dressing.

8. Can I add fruit to this salad?

Yes! Pineapple chunks are a delicious addition and complement the creamy dressing with a touch of sweetness.

9. How do I prevent the pasta from getting soggy?

Rinse the pasta under cold water after cooking to cool it quickly and prevent it from absorbing too much dressing.

10. Is Hawaiian Macaroni Salad gluten-free?

No, this recipe uses traditional pasta which contains gluten. However, you can use gluten-free pasta as a substitute.

Conclusion

Hawaiian Macaroni Salad is a simple yet flavorful side dish that’s sure to please a crowd. With its creamy, tangy dressing and satisfying crunch from the veggies, this salad is perfect for any occasion. Whether you serve it at a BBQ, picnic, or holiday dinner, it’s sure to be a hit. Plus, it’s easy to make, customizable, and can be prepped ahead of time. So why wait? Try this delightful recipe today and enjoy a taste of tropical comfort in every bite!