1. Home
  2. Recipes
  3. Hawaiian Macaroni

Hawaiian Macaroni Salad

Imagine scooping a generous portion of Hawaiian Macaroni Salad onto your plate 🍽. This isn't just any macaroni salad; it's a glimpse into the heart of Hawaiian cuisine, where every bite is a celebration of flavors and textures. What makes this dish truly special are the unique ingredients like a splash of apple cider vinegar for a hint of tang and a sprinkle of sugar that balances the flavors beautifully. Carrots and celery add a delightful crunch, contrasting the tender macaroni and the rich, creamy dressing. It's the perfect side dish that brings a touch of Aloha 🌺 to your table, whether you're hosting a backyard luau or simply craving a comforting, flavorful salad. The blend of textures and flavors in this salad isn't just food; it's an experience—an invitation to enjoy the simplicity and richness of Hawaiian cuisine.

Featured in Evening meals for every day.

A woman in an apron is preparing a meal in a sunny kitchen filled with fresh vegetables and herbs.
Updated on Sat, 04 Jan 2025 03:16:04 GMT
Print Recipe Pin Recipe Send Recipe Jump To Recipe
Hawaiian Macaroni Salad Save it
Hawaiian Macaroni Salad | myhomemaderecipe.com

Hawaiian Macaroni Salad Recipe

Welcome to a refreshing and flavorful side dish: Hawaiian Macaroni Salad. This creamy salad is a staple in Hawaiian cuisine and is perfect for picnics, barbecues, or as a side dish for any meal. Combining tender elbow macaroni, crunchy vegetables, and a tangy tuna-mayo dressing, this salad is sure to be a hit. Let's dive into the ingredients that make this dish so special.

Ingredients

Here is a detailed look at the ingredients you’ll need to create Hawaiian Macaroni Salad:

  • ½ pound elbow macaroni: The base of the salad, providing a tender and chewy texture.
  • 1 small carrot, peeled and diced: Adds a sweet crunch and vibrant color.
  • 1 celery stalk, trimmed and diced: Adds a fresh, crisp texture.
  • 2 tablespoons finely diced red onion: Adds a mild, slightly sharp flavor.
  • 1 1/2 cups mayonnaise: Creates a creamy and rich dressing.
  • 2 1/2 tablespoons canned tuna, drained: Adds a savory and slightly salty flavor.
  • 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar: Adds tanginess and balances the richness of the mayo.
  • Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for seasoning the salad to perfection.

Instructions

Follow these detailed steps to create a delicious and creamy Hawaiian Macaroni Salad that’s perfect for any occasion.

Step 1: Cook the Macaroni

  • Fill a large pot with water, place over high heat, and bring to a boil. Add some salt to the water to enhance the flavor of the pasta.
  • Add ½ pound of elbow macaroni to the boiling water and stir occasionally. Boil for about 7 to 8 minutes or until the macaroni is tender but still firm to the bite (al dente).
  • Drain the cooked macaroni and set it aside to cool slightly.

Step 2: Prepare the Dressing

  • In a small bowl, combine 1 1/2 cups of mayonnaise, 2 1/2 tablespoons of canned tuna (drained), and 2 tablespoons of apple cider vinegar. Mix well until the ingredients are fully incorporated.
  • Season the dressing with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

  • In a large bowl, combine the cooked and drained macaroni, 1 small diced carrot, 1 diced celery stalk, and 2 tablespoons of finely diced red onion.
  • Pour the prepared mayo mixture over the macaroni and vegetables. Fold together until all the ingredients are thoroughly mixed and coated with the dressing.

Step 4: Chill

  • Place the mixture in the refrigerator for at least an hour to allow the flavors to meld together. Chilling also helps the salad firm up, making it easier to serve.

Step 5: Serve

  • Before serving, check the seasoning and add more salt and pepper if needed.
  • Serve the Hawaiian Macaroni Salad chilled, either as a side dish or on its own. It pairs wonderfully with grilled meats, sandwiches, or any picnic fare.

Serving and Storage Tips

  • Serving: Serve this salad chilled for the best taste and texture. It pairs wonderfully with grilled meats, sandwiches, or any picnic fare. For added flavor and presentation, garnish with a sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley or green onions.
  • Storage: If you have leftovers, place the salad in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3-4 days. Proper storage helps maintain the flavor and texture of the salad.
  • Reheating: This salad is best served cold. If you need to refresh the flavors, give it a good stir and add a little more mayonnaise if it has dried out. Avoid reheating, as it may alter the texture of the ingredients.

Helpful Notes and Variations

  • Additional Ingredients: Enhance the flavor by adding other ingredients. Consider incorporating diced bell peppers, pineapple chunks, or chopped hard-boiled eggs for added texture and taste.
  • Cheese Options: While this recipe does not call for cheese, you can add small cubes of cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese for an extra creamy texture.
  • Spice It Up: If you enjoy a bit of heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the dressing. This will give the salad a spicy kick that complements the creamy components.
  • Alternative Proteins: Substitute the canned tuna with cooked and diced ham, shredded chicken, or even a plant-based protein for a different take on this classic recipe.

As Julia Child once said, "The only time to eat diet food is while you're waiting for the steak to cook." Experiment and enjoy your Hawaiian Macaroni Salad in your own unique way!

Hawaiian Macaroni

Embrace the essence of island bliss with this Hawaiian Macaroni Salad. A delectable mix of creamy dressing, tender pasta, and crisp veggies, it's a taste of Hawaii in every bite.

Prep Time
15 Minutes
Cook Time
8 Minutes
Total Time
23 Minutes
By: Zaho

Category: Dinners

Difficulty: Easy

Cuisine: American

Yield: 4 Servings

Dietary: Dairy-Free

Ingredients

01 ½ pound elbow macaroni.
02 1 small carrot, peeled and diced.
03 1 celery stalk, trimmed and diced.
04 2 tablespoons finely diced red onion.
05 1 1/2 cups mayonnaise.
06 2 1/2 tablespoons canned tuna, drained.
07 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar.
08 Salt and pepper to taste.

Instructions

Step 01

Fill a large pot with water, place over high heat and bring to a boil. Add some salt and the macaroni and stir. Boil macaroni for about 7 to 8 minutes, stirring occasionally. Drain and set aside.

Step 02

Place 1 1/2 cups of mayonnaise, 2 1/2 tablespoons of canned tuna, and 2 tablespoons of apple cider vinegar in a small bowl. Season with salt and pepper and stir together until well combined.

Step 03

In a large bowl, combine the cooked and drained macaroni, diced carrot, diced celery, diced red onion, and the mayo mixture.

Step 04

Fold together until thoroughly mixed. Season with additional salt and pepper to taste.

Step 05

Place the mixture in the refrigerator for at least an hour to allow the flavors to meld together.

Step 06

Before serving, check the seasoning and add more salt and pepper if needed. Serve chilled.

Notes

  1. Hawaiian Macaroni Salad is a creamy and flavorful side dish perfect for picnics, barbecues, or any meal. The combination of tender macaroni, crunchy vegetables, and a tangy tuna-mayo dressing makes it a delightful addition to any table.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

It is important to consider this information as approximate and not to use it as definitive health advice.
  • Calories: 250
  • Total Fat: ~
  • Total Carbohydrate: ~
  • Protein: ~