Description

This Hawaiian Macaroni Salad is a creamy, comforting, authentic side dish from the islands that’s perfect for summer cookouts, barbecues, and luaus. A local Hawaiian plate-lunch style classic macaroni salad that is absolutely delicious!

Ingredients

Scale

1 cup whole milk
2 cups mayonnaise
2 Tablespoons grated yellow onion
2 Tablespoons brown sugar
1 teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon salt
1 pound elbow macaroni
1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
5 green onions (white and green parts sliced thin)
2 large celery ribs (chopped)
1 cup grated carrots
1/4 cup grated onion

Instructions

Step: Combine all dressing ingredients in a medium bowl and whisk together until smooth. Cover and refrigerate until needed.
Step: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil on the stove over high heat, then cook the macaroni noodles in it according to package directions. Except add an additional 5 minutes to the cooking time so the pasta will be very soft and plump and can absorb the dressing better.
Step: Drain the macaroni well in a colander, then return it to the pot and add the apple cider vinegar, stirring until the warm pasta absorbs the vinegar. Cover with a lid and let sit for 20 minutes.
Step: Add half of the dressing to the cooked pasta, stirring to coat, then cover with the lid again for another 20 minutes so the pasta can absorb some of the dressing.
Step: Add the remaining dressing, green onions, celery, and grated carrot and onion to the pasta and stir well to combine. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper, as needed.
Step: Transfer to a large serving bowl and cover with plastic wrap. Chill in the fridge for 2 hours until completely cool before serving.

Notes

To achieve authentic texture, intentionally overcook the macaroni noodles so they absorb flavors better. Use real mayonnaise (avoid Miracle Whip) and add the apple cider vinegar while the pasta is still hot.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Category: Side Dish
Method: Boiling
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 serving
Calories: 508 kcal
Sugar: 7 g
Sodium: 542 mg
Fat: 35 g
Saturated Fat: 6 g
Unsaturated Fat: 28 g
Trans Fat: 1 g
Carbohydrates: 40 g
Fiber: 2 g
Protein: 7 g
Cholesterol: 21 mg

Keywords: Hawaiian macaroni salad, plate lunch, side dish, creamy pasta salad, Hawaiian cuisine