Hawaiian mac salad recipe
There’s just something about this Hawaiian mac salad recipe that feels like sunshine in a bowl. Creamy, tangy, slightly sweet, and oh-so comforting — it’s proof that sometimes the simplest dishes are the most beloved.
Ingredients
- Base
- 1 pound elbow macaroni – Cooked past al dente soft, not firm — that’s the secret!.
- Cold water – For rinsing the pasta.
- Dressing
- 2 cups mayonnaise – Best Foods or Hellmann’s for authenticity.
- ½ cup whole milk – Helps thin the dressing and coat every noodle.
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar – Adds brightness.
- 1 tablespoon sugar – Balances the tang.
- 1 teaspoon ground black pepper – Freshly cracked if possible.
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt – Adjust to taste.
- Add-ins
- 1 cup grated carrots – Sweet crunch.
- ½ cup finely diced onion – Mild not overpowering.
- 2 hard-boiled eggs chopped (optional) – For extra richness.
- 2 stalks celery finely diced (optional) – Adds freshness.
Instructions
- Cook the macaroni: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook 2–3 minutes longer than al dente. You want them tender, almost soft. Drain and rinse under cold water.
- Season while warm: Transfer pasta to a large bowl. While still warm, sprinkle with apple cider vinegar and toss. This helps the noodles absorb flavor.
- Mix the dressing: In a medium bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, milk, sugar, salt, and black pepper until smooth.
- Combine: Pour half the dressing over the pasta. Toss to coat. Add grated carrots, onion, and any optional mix-ins (boiled egg, celery).
- Chill: Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour (overnight is even better). The pasta will soak up the dressing.
- Final touch: Before serving, add the remaining dressing and stir. Taste and adjust seasoning.
Notes
- Overcook the pasta: Don’t stop at al dente — Hawaiian mac salad uses softer noodles.
- Chill time matters: The flavors need time to mingle. Overnight is ideal.
- Don’t skimp on mayo: It’s the backbone of the creamy texture.
- Reserve some dressing: Add it before serving to keep things luscious.
- Use a large bowl: This makes mixing easier and prevents breaking noodles.