Delicious Hawaiian Mac Salad Recipe that can be made the day before you need to serve it. So easy to make and tastes amazing.
Hawaiian Mac Salad Recipe
Way back in college, I spent a summer semester living on the Big Island of Hawaii studying Marine Biology. I was lucky enough to get an internship working with bottlenose dolphins and spent an additional semester living on the island. During my time on the Big Island, I fell in LOVE with Hawaii.
There is just something special about being on the island and living the Aloha spirit. It has been a couple of years since we were able to be on the island, and I miss it so much. I decided it was time to finally start making some of my favorite recipes at home.
I made Hawaiian Hurricane Popcorn a couple of months ago and still want to make lilikoi malasada, loco moco, and a few other favorites from my time on the island.
This Hawaiian Mac Salad is essential on a Hawaiian Plate Lunch which also includes two scoops of white rice, mac salad, and an entree. If there are two entrees then it is called a mixed plate. Popular entrees include Chicken Katsu, Teriyaki Beef, Kalua Pork, and LauLau.
Whether you serve it as part of plate lunch or as a side dish this recipe is going to become a family favorite!
When I made this Hawaii Mac Salad I invited one of our friends who grew up on the Big Island over to test the recipe. I knew that she would not hold back and would tell me if the flavor was not what she grew up with. I have to tell you it was amazing when she asked for the leftovers and took home multiple packages of Mac Salad.
She said that she hadn't had it in way too long and planned to enjoy it for as long as possible.
Ingredients
- Elbow Macaroni
- Apple Cider Vinegar
- Carrots
- Mayonnaise
- Milk
- Sugar
- Salt and Pepper
Optional - Onion, green onions, or celery
Mayonnaise - When it comes to the brand of mayo to use I highly suggest using Best Foods to get the most authentic flavor.
Equipment Needed
Covered large bowl - I suggest using a large bowl that has a cover or saran wrap to cover the bowl in the refrigerator.
Wooden Spoons
Small Bowl/Whisk - to make the mayo, milk and sugar for the dressing.
Recipe Tips
Cook the macaroni according to the box directions so it is done correctly.
You will want to use a bigger bowl than you think you will need! The first time I made this I realized the bowl I planned to use was way too small for the amount of mac salad I had made.
This Hawaiian Macaroni Salad is best when it rests for a minimum of 4 hours but preferably 24 hours before serving. Make sure to cover and refrigerate before serving so the flavors meld together.
We do not put grated onion in our mac salad but you can easily add it if you love the taste.
Make sure to stir before serving
We love serving this as a side for ribs.
Great Salad Recipes
Do you love recipes? Check out our copy cat recipes, dessert recipes, and our Crock Pot Recipes.
This recipe is featured in our side dishes for Sloppy Joes collection and our best side dishes for ham collection.
Best Hawaiian Mac Salad Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 pound Elbow Macaroni
- 2 Tablespoon Apple Cider Vinegar
- 2 Carrots Shredded
- 2.5 cups Mayonnaise
- ¼ cup Milk
- 2 teaspoon White Sugar
- Salt and pepper to taste to taste
Instructions
- Cook pasta according to the box instructions, drain and pour into a large bowl
- Add apple cider vinegar and shredded carrots to the hot macaroni. Toss together. Refrigerate until cool.
- Combine mayonnaise, milk and sugar together in a bowl.
- When the macaroni has cooled down fold the Mayonnaise dressing into the pasta until noodles are evenly coated.
- Cover and refrigerate for a minimum of 4 hours. Gently stir the pasta salad before serving.
Pat
So simple yet so ono!
Jana Anjum
It is delicious 😋. Like the layout of your site. Thank you.