This Easy Hawaiian Mac Salad is a tasty mix of macaroni, creamy mayo, and colorful veggies. It’s a fan favorite at food trucks, perfect for a picnic or side dish!
If you’re like me, you love how quick it is to whip up this salad—just cook the pasta, mix in the goodies, and serve! Bonus: it’s even better the next day!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Elbow Macaroni: This is the classic choice for mac salad, but you can use any small pasta like shells or even gluten-free pasta for a lighter option.
Mayonnaise: Full-fat mayo gives the salad its wonderful creaminess. For a lighter version, opt for Greek yogurt or low-fat mayo. It’s tasty, too!
Apple Cider Vinegar: This adds a tangy flavor. You can use white vinegar or even lemon juice as substitutes if you don’t have apple cider vinegar on hand.
Sugar: A small amount balances the acidity of the vinegar. If you prefer, substitute it with honey or leave it out entirely for a less sweet flavor.
Carrots and Celery: These vegetables add crunch and color. Feel free to swap or add other veggies like bell peppers or green onions for more variety.
Crushed Pineapple: This is optional but adds a nice sweetness. If you want a fruitier taste, you might use diced apples instead.
How Do I Get the Pasta Just Right?
Cooking the pasta correctly is key for a great mac salad! Follow these simple tips:
- Salt the water generously to flavor the pasta.
- Cook until al dente, so it stays firm and doesn’t get mushy when mixed.
- After draining, rinse with cold water to stop cooking and cool it quickly.
These steps help your pasta give the perfect texture in the salad!
Easy Hawaiian Mac Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 cups elbow macaroni
- 1 1/2 cups mayonnaise (preferably full-fat for creaminess)
- 2 teaspoons apple cider vinegar or white vinegar
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 1/2 cups shredded carrot
- 1 cup finely chopped celery
- Optional: 1/4 cup crushed pineapple (drained) for a sweet tropical touch
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Hawaiian mac salad takes about 30 minutes to prepare and an extra 2 hours (or overnight for best results) for chilling. The hands-on time is quick, but letting the flavors meld in the fridge really enhances the taste!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by boiling a large pot of salted water. When the water is at a rolling boil, add the elbow macaroni. Cook according to the package instructions until just tender (al dente). Once done, drain the pasta and rinse it under cold water to stop the cooking and cool it down completely.
2. Make the Dressing:
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar (or white vinegar), sugar, salt, and black pepper until the mixture is smooth and well combined. This creamy dressing will coat your pasta beautifully!
3. Combine Everything:
Once your pasta is cooled, add it to the bowl with the dressing. Gently mix it together to ensure all the pasta is coated. Then stir in the shredded carrot and finely chopped celery, mixing well to distribute the veggies evenly throughout.
4. Add Optional Pineapple:
If you’re using crushed pineapple, gently fold it into the salad, making sure it’s evenly distributed without breaking up the pasta too much.
5. Chill the Salad:
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and place it in the refrigerator. Chill for at least 2 hours, or for the best flavor, overnight. This allows all those yummy flavors to blend together!
6. Adjust and Serve:
Before serving, taste the salad and adjust the seasoning with extra salt or pepper if needed. Serve this refreshing and creamy Hawaiian mac salad chilled, as a side dish for Hawaiian-style plate lunches or any festive gathering!
The combination of creamy dressing with a crunch from the veggies makes this salad a favorite, just like the ones found at food trucks. Enjoy your delightful creation!
FAQ for Easy Hawaiian Mac Salad
Can I Use Different Types of Pasta?
Absolutely! While elbow macaroni is traditional, you can substitute it with small pasta shapes like shells or fusilli. Just make sure to follow the cooking instructions for the specific pasta you choose!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To keep the salad fresh, it’s best to avoid letting it out for long periods, especially in warm environments.
Can I Make This Salad Vegan?
Yes! To make this salad vegan, simply use a plant-based mayonnaise alternative. You can also add additional veggies or even tofu for extra protein. The taste will still be delicious!
How Can I Customize the Ingredients?
This salad is very versatile! You can add diced bell peppers, green onions, or even sweet peas for extra flavor and texture. If you prefer a sweeter taste, consider increasing the amount of crushed pineapple.
