This creamy Hawaiian Mac Salad is a tasty treat that’s perfect for any potluck or picnic. It’s made with tender pasta, crunchy veggies, and a rich mayonnaise dressing that brings everything together.
When I make this salad, it disappears faster than I can serve it! I like to add a bit of sweet pineapple for a fun twist. It’s simple, delicious, and always a crowd-pleaser!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Elbow Macaroni: This is the classic choice for macaroni salad, but you can swap in other short pastas, like shells or rotini, if you prefer. They pick up the dressing nicely, too!
Mayonnaise: I recommend using Japanese mayo, as it’s creamier and a bit sweeter. If that’s not available, regular mayo works just fine. For a lighter version, try using Greek yogurt instead.
Milk: Whole milk makes it rich, but you can use any kind of milk, including non-dairy options like almond or oat milk if you’re looking for a dairy-free alternative.
Pineapple: Crushed pineapple adds sweetness and tropical flair, but feel free to skip it if you want a more traditional salad. In its place, some finely chopped bell pepper can add color and crunch.
How Do I Make Sure My Pasta is Just Right?
Cooking pasta perfectly is key to a great mac salad. Overcooking can make it mushy, which no one wants! Here’s how to get it just right:
- Boil a large pot of salted water to infuse flavor.
- Cook the elbow macaroni for about 7 minutes, keeping an eye on it. You want it al dente, meaning slightly firm when bitten.
- Once cooked, drain the pasta and rinse it under cold water. This stops the cooking process and cools it for the salad.
Following these steps will give you that perfect pasta texture in your Hawaiian Mac Salad!
Easy Hawaiian Mac Salad Recipe Like Food Trucks
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 8 ounces elbow macaroni
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise (preferably Japanese mayo for authenticity)
- 1/4 cup whole milk or evaporated milk
- 1 1/2 teaspoons sugar
- 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar or white vinegar
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 1 cup finely shredded carrot
- 1/2 cup finely chopped celery
- Optional: 1/4 cup crushed pineapple, drained (for a slightly sweet touch)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15-20 minutes of preparation time for cooking the pasta and mixing all the ingredients. You’ll then want to chill the salad in the fridge for at least 1 hour to let the flavors meld, making the total time about 1 hour and 20 minutes. Perfect for making ahead of time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cooking the Pasta:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once it’s bubbling, add the elbow macaroni. Cook the pasta for about 7 minutes until it’s just tender but still has a little firmness when you bite into it. When done, drain the pasta and rinse it under cold water to stop the cooking process. Make sure it’s well drained afterward.
2. Preparing the Dressing:
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, milk, sugar, vinegar, salt, and black pepper. Mix it until it’s nice and smooth. This creamy dressing is what will bring the salad together.
3. Mixing in Veggies:
Now it’s time to add your cooled macaroni, shredded carrot, and chopped celery to the dressing. If you’re using pineapple, gently fold that in now too. It adds a lovely sweetness and unique flavor!
4. Combining and Chilling:
Carefully toss everything together until all the pasta and veggies are coated in the dressing. This is where the magic happens! Once combined, cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and place it in the fridge for at least 1 hour to chill.
5. Final Touches:
After the salad has chilled and the flavors have melded, give it a gentle stir before serving. If it needs a little more seasoning, feel free to add a pinch of salt or a dash of pepper to taste. Now, it’s ready to be enjoyed!
Enjoy this classic, creamy, and slightly tangy Hawaiian Mac Salad just like the ones from food trucks! It’s sure to be a hit at any gathering!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Different Types of Pasta?
Absolutely! While elbow macaroni is the classic choice, you can use other short pasta like shells or rotini. Just make sure to cook them according to package instructions for al dente texture.
What Can I Substitute for Mayonnaise?
If you’re looking for a lighter option, try Greek yogurt or a dairy-free mayo alternative. You can also mix half mayo with half sour cream for a delicious twist!
How Long Can I Store Leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just give it a good stir before serving, and if it seems a bit dry, a splash of milk or more mayo can help refresh it!
Can I Make This Salad Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare this salad a day in advance! In fact, making it ahead of time allows the flavors to meld even more. Just keep it covered in the refrigerator until ready to serve.
