Discover the perfect Hawaiian Mac Salad recipe that brings the taste of the islands to your table. This creamy, tangy pasta salad is a must-try for BBQs, potlucks, and family dinners. Made with elbow macaroni, a rich mayo dressing, and fresh veggies, this easy and delicious recipe will be your new favorite side dish. Follow our simple steps to create a crowd-pleaser that’s sure to impress. Ideal for summer gatherings and meal prepping.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Dressing:
- 2 cups half and half
- 2 cups mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup yellow onion, finely grated
- 2 teaspoons granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
For the Salad:
- 1 lb dried elbow macaroni
- 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
- 2 carrots, finely grated
- 1/4 cup celery, finely diced
Step-by-Step Preparation
Making the Dressing
1. Whisk the Ingredients
In a medium-sized bowl, combine the half and half, mayonnaise, finely grated yellow onion, sugar, salt, and black pepper. Whisk these ingredients together until they are fully incorporated. This will be your dressing, which gives the mac salad its signature creamy texture and flavor.
2. Chill the Dressing
Place the dressing in the refrigerator to chill. This helps meld the flavors together and thickens the dressing slightly, making it perfect for coating the pasta later.
Cooking the Pasta
3. Cook the Macaroni
Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook it for about 5 minutes longer than the package instructions suggest. Overcooking the pasta slightly is key—it helps the macaroni absorb the dressing better.
4. Drain and Vinegar Treatment
Drain the macaroni and immediately return it to the pot. Pour in the apple cider vinegar and stir until the vinegar is completely absorbed. This step adds a subtle tangy kick to the pasta and helps in flavor absorption.
Combining Everything
5. Initial Dressing Mix
Once the macaroni has come down to room temperature (about 20 minutes), add half of the prepared dressing. Stir well to ensure all the pasta is coated. Cover the pot and let it cool for another 20 minutes. This initial mix allows the pasta to start soaking up the flavors of the dressing.
6. Final Dressing and Add-Ins
After the second cooling period, add the remaining dressing, grated carrots, and diced celery. Stir everything together until well combined. The carrots add a slight sweetness and crunch, while the celery adds freshness and texture.
Chill and Serve
7. Chill the Salad
Transfer the mac salad to a serving bowl or container and chill it in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours before serving. This final chilling step ensures the salad is well-marinated and the flavors are fully developed.
Tips for the Best Hawaiian Mac Salad
Use Quality Ingredients
The quality of your ingredients can make a big difference. Use fresh, high-quality mayonnaise and dairy for the best flavor.
Grate the Onion Finely
Make sure to grate the onion finely so that it integrates smoothly into the dressing. You don’t want large chunks of onion disrupting the creamy texture.
Adjust Seasoning to Taste
After mixing all the ingredients, taste the salad and adjust the seasoning if necessary. Add more salt, pepper, or even a bit more sugar if you prefer a slightly sweeter dressing.
Variations to Try
Add Pineapple
For a more tropical twist, you can add small chunks of fresh or canned pineapple. This adds a sweet contrast to the creamy and tangy salad.
Incorporate Protein
Add diced ham or grilled chicken to turn this side dish into a satisfying main course.
Experiment with Herbs
Fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro can add an extra layer of flavor and freshness.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this Hawaiian Mac Salad chilled as a side dish with your favorite barbecue meats, burgers, or even grilled fish. It’s a versatile dish that complements a wide range of main courses.
FAQs
1. Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes, this salad is perfect for making ahead. In fact, letting it sit in the refrigerator overnight enhances the flavors.
2. Can I use a different type of pasta?
Elbow macaroni is traditional, but you can use any small pasta shape. Just ensure it’s slightly overcooked for better dressing absorption.
3. How long does this salad last in the fridge?
Stored in an airtight container, this salad can last up to 5 days in the refrigerator.
4. Can I make this salad dairy-free?
You can substitute the half and half with a dairy-free alternative like almond milk or coconut milk. Use a vegan mayonnaise to make it completely dairy-free.
5. What can I use instead of apple cider vinegar?
White vinegar or rice vinegar can be used as a substitute. Each will impart a slightly different flavor, but both work well in this recipe.
Leave a Reply