Hawaiian macaroni salad is a classic dish known for its creamy, tangy, and slightly sweet flavor. Traditionally served alongside barbecued meats or as a side dish at family gatherings and potlucks, this salad is loved for its simplicity and versatility. The creamy dressing made from mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, and a touch of sugar gives the salad a unique balance of flavors. With crunchy vegetables like celery and carrots, combined with the soft pasta, it’s the perfect comfort food for any occasion.

What truly sets Hawaiian macaroni salad apart from other pasta salads is its refreshing yet hearty texture, making it a crowd-pleaser at both casual and festive events. While the salad is simple to make, it’s packed with rich, satisfying ingredients. Whether served alongside grilled fish, barbecue chicken, or a hearty steak, this salad is guaranteed to complement any main dish. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to customize with additional ingredients or flavor tweaks. Whether you’re preparing a dish for a party or enjoying a family dinner, Hawaiian macaroni salad brings a touch of tropical comfort to your table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Creamy and Tangy Flavor

The balance of mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, and sugar in the dressing creates a creamy yet slightly tangy flavor that’s both comforting and refreshing.

2. Quick and Easy to Make

With simple ingredients and easy-to-follow steps, this recipe can be prepared in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for a last-minute side dish.

3. Customizable

Whether you want to add more vegetables, include some diced ham, or even swap in a different type of pasta, this recipe is highly adaptable to your tastes.

4. Great for Meal Prep

Hawaiian macaroni salad keeps well in the refrigerator, making it a fantastic make-ahead option for busy weeks, barbecues, or potlucks.

5. Family-Friendly

With a mild flavor profile and familiar ingredients, this salad is sure to please picky eaters and is a great way to introduce children to new flavors.

Ingredients

Elbow pasta
Mayonnaise
Milk
Granulated sugar
Apple cider vinegar
Salt
Ground black pepper
Shredded carrots
Celery, finely chopped
Yellow onion, finely chopped
Optional: Ham, cubed
Green onions, roughly chopped (for garnish)

Variations

Add Protein: For a heartier salad, you can add cubed cooked chicken, bacon bits, or even shrimp.
Add Fruit: For a slightly sweeter twist, try adding pineapple chunks or raisins.
Different Pasta: While elbow pasta is traditional, you can substitute with any small pasta such as rotini or shells.
Vegan Version: Use vegan mayonnaise and omit the ham for a plant-based version.
Spicy Kick: If you like a bit of heat, add a small amount of diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Start by cooking the elbow pasta according to the package directions. Once cooked, drain and rinse the pasta under cold water to stop the cooking process and cool it down.

Step 2: Prepare the Dressing

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

Step 3: Combine the Ingredients

Add the cooked pasta to the dressing mixture. Stir in the shredded carrots, finely chopped celery, and yellow onion, mixing well until all ingredients are coated evenly.

Step 4: Optional Ham and Garnish

If using, add the cubed ham to the mixture and stir to combine. Garnish the salad with chopped green onions for a fresh finish.

Step 5: Chill and Serve

Cover the salad and refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving to allow the flavors to meld together. Serve cold.

Tips for Making the Recipe

Let the Pasta Cool: Rinsing the pasta under cold water helps to cool it quickly and prevents it from absorbing too much of the dressing.
Chill Before Serving: Refrigerating the salad allows the flavors to meld and makes the texture even creamier.
Adjust the Dressing: If you prefer a creamier salad, feel free to add extra mayo or a splash more milk. Adjust the sugar and vinegar to suit your taste.
Use Fresh Ingredients: Freshly chopped vegetables will add a crunchy, vibrant texture, making the salad more enjoyable.

How to Serve

Hawaiian macaroni salad can be served as a side dish alongside grilled meats, seafood, or burgers. It pairs particularly well with dishes like grilled chicken, ribs, or fish tacos. You can also serve it as part of a potluck spread, a picnic, or as a light main dish during a warm-weather meal.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. The pasta salad will continue to absorb the dressing over time, so it may become thicker but will still taste delicious.

Freezing

While you can freeze Hawaiian macaroni salad, the texture of the pasta and vegetables may change once thawed, making it less appealing. It’s best to enjoy it fresh or refrigerated.

Reheating

This salad is typically served cold and does not need to be reheated. If you prefer a slightly softer texture, you can let it sit out for a few minutes to reach room temperature before serving.

FAQs

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

Yes, you can substitute elbow pasta with any small pasta, like rotini, penne, or shell pasta.

2. Is this salad suitable for a vegan diet?

Yes, by using vegan mayonnaise and omitting the ham, this recipe can easily be adapted for a vegan diet.

3. Can I add more vegetables?

Absolutely! Feel free to add additional vegetables like peas, bell peppers, or cucumbers for extra crunch and flavor.

4. How long can I store leftovers?

Leftover Hawaiian macaroni salad will keep in the refrigerator for 3-4 days when stored in an airtight container.

5. Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes, you can make Hawaiian macaroni salad up to a day in advance. Chilling the salad before serving helps the flavors meld together.

6. What can I serve with Hawaiian macaroni salad?

This salad pairs wonderfully with grilled meats, seafood, burgers, or roasted vegetables. It’s perfect for barbecues and family gatherings.

7. Can I make it spicier?

Yes, you can add a small amount of diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to give it a spicy kick.

8. Is this recipe gluten-free?

No, this recipe is not gluten-free due to the elbow pasta. However, you can substitute gluten-free pasta for a gluten-free version.

9. How can I make the dressing creamier?

If you prefer a creamier dressing, simply add more mayonnaise or a bit more milk to reach your desired consistency.

10. Can I freeze Hawaiian macaroni salad?

It’s not recommended to freeze Hawaiian macaroni salad due to the texture of the pasta and vegetables after thawing. It’s best enjoyed fresh or refrigerated.

Conclusion

Hawaiian macaroni salad is a simple yet flavorful dish that’s sure to impress at any gathering. With its creamy, tangy dressing and crisp vegetables, it’s a crowd-pleasing side dish that pairs well with a variety of meals. Whether you make it with or without ham, this salad is easily customizable to suit your preferences. Quick to prepare, great for meal prep, and perfect for any occasion, Hawaiian macaroni salad is a must-try recipe that will quickly become a favorite at your table.