This Hawaiian Macaroni Salad is a fun and tasty dish! It’s creamy, loaded with tender pasta, and has colorful veggies that make every bite pleasant. Perfect for BBQs and picnics!
I love how this salad can be made ahead of time. The flavors just get better as it sits in the fridge—plus, it makes a great sidekick to grilled meats!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Elbow Macaroni: This is the classic pasta for this salad. You can also use other short pasta shapes like shells or rotini, which will hold the dressing nicely. Sometimes, I use whole wheat elbow macaroni for added fiber.
Mayonnaise: Mayonnaise is crucial for creaminess. If you’re looking for healthier options, try Greek yogurt or a vegan mayo. I often mix half mayo and half yogurt for a tangy twist!
Apple Cider Vinegar: It adds a mild tang. If you don’t have it, white vinegar or lemon juice can serve as a substitute. I prefer sticking with apple cider vinegar for its fruity notes.
Diced Ham: Ham brings protein and flavor. If you want a vegetarian option, chickpeas or shredded cooked chicken work well. Sometimes, I use cooked bacon for a smoky flavor!
Optional Pineapple Tidbits: Pineapple adds sweetness that contrasts nicely with savory ingredients. If you’re not a pineapple fan, chopped apples or raisins can provide sweetness too.
How Do I Ensure Perfectly Cooked Pasta?
Cooking pasta to the right texture is key for this salad. You want it al dente, which means it should be firm yet tender. Here’s how:
- Follow the package instructions for cooking time, usually around 8-10 minutes.
- To check for doneness, taste a piece a minute before the suggested time. It should be cooked but still have a bit of a bite.
- Once done, drain and rinse the pasta under cold water to stop the cooking process and cool it down quickly.
This step helps keep the pasta from getting mushy when mixed with the dressing!
How to Make Hawaiian Macaroni Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 1 pound elbow macaroni
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup diced ham
- 1 cup shredded carrots
- 1/2 cup diced celery
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions
- Optional: 1/2 cup canned pineapple tidbits, drained
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Hawaiian Macaroni Salad takes about 15 minutes to prep and requires at least 2 hours in the refrigerator to chill. It’s simple and a perfect side dish for summer gatherings or picnics!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Macaroni:
Start by cooking the elbow macaroni according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. This usually takes around 8-10 minutes. Once cooked, drain the macaroni in a colander and rinse it under cold water to cool it down. Set the macaroni aside to cool completely.
2. Make the Dressing:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the mayonnaise, milk, apple cider vinegar, sugar, salt, and black pepper. Use a whisk to mix everything together until it’s smooth and creamy. This will be the dressing that brings all the flavors together.
3. Combine the Ingredients:
Add the cooled macaroni to the bowl with the dressing. Stir well to coat all the pasta with the creamy sauce evenly. It’s important to ensure every bit of macaroni is covered!
4. Add the Veggies and Ham:
Gently stir in the diced ham, shredded carrots, diced celery, chopped green onions, and the optional pineapple tidbits if you’re using them. Mix everything together gently so that the ingredients are well combined without smashing them.
5. Chill the Salad:
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and place it in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours. If you have time, letting it chill overnight is even better, as it allows the flavors to meld together beautifully.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
After chilling, give the salad a quick stir, taste it, and adjust the seasonings if necessary. Serve the Hawaiian Macaroni Salad chilled as a tasty side dish, and enjoy! It’s a crowd-pleaser!
Can I Use a Different Type of Pasta?
Absolutely! While elbow macaroni is traditional, you can use any short pasta like fusilli, rotini, or even shells. Just ensure you cook it until al dente and rinse it with cold water to stop the cooking process.
How Can I Make This Salad Lighter?
If you want to lighten up the salad, try using Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise or a light mayonnaise variant. You can also reduce the amount of sugar and use more veggies to maintain that satisfying creamy flavor without the heaviness.
Can I Add Other Vegetables?
Definitely! Feel free to get creative by adding diced bell peppers, peas, or corn for extra crunch and flavor. Just make sure to keep the total vegetable amount similar so that the dressing has enough to coat everything evenly.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover Hawaiian macaroni salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. If it seems dry upon reheating, stir in a bit of milk or extra mayonnaise to restore its creamy texture.
