Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Hawaiian Macaroni Salad is the perfect blend of creamy, tangy, and sweet flavors, all wrapped up in a simple and easy-to-make dish. It’s comforting, yet light enough to enjoy on warm days. The macaroni absorbs the creamy dressing beautifully, making every bite as flavorful as the last. This salad is customizable with your favorite ingredients (think hard-boiled eggs or pineapple), and it’s always a crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re making it for a party, picnic, or just to enjoy at home, Hawaiian Macaroni Salad is a classic favorite that everyone will love.

Ingredients

2 cups elbow macaroni (or any short pasta)
1/2 cup mayonnaise
1/4 cup sour cream (optional, for extra creaminess)
1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
1 tablespoon sugar (or honey)
1/2 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
1/4 teaspoon black pepper (or to taste)
1/4 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
1/4 teaspoon onion powder (optional)
1/4 cup grated carrots
1/4 cup finely chopped celery
1/4 cup finely chopped onion (yellow or green)
1/4 cup chopped parsley or green onions for garnish (optional)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Cook the Macaroni:

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the elbow macaroni according to the package instructions until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Drain and rinse the pasta under cold water to cool it down and stop the cooking process. Drain well and set aside.

2. Prepare the Dressing:

In a large mixing bowl, combine the mayonnaise, sour cream (if using), apple cider vinegar, sugar, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. Whisk until the dressing is smooth and well combined.

3. Combine the Salad:

Add the cooled macaroni to the dressing and mix until the pasta is well coated.
Stir in the grated carrots, chopped celery, and chopped onion. Mix everything together until evenly distributed.

4. Chill the Salad:

Cover the salad and refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving. This allows the flavors to meld and the salad to chill.

5. Serve:

Garnish the salad with chopped parsley or green onions, if desired, and serve chilled.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 6-8 servings
Prep time: 15 minutes
Chill time: 1 hour
Total time: 1 hour 15 minutes

Variations

Add Pineapple: For a tropical twist, add diced pineapple to the salad. The sweetness pairs wonderfully with the creamy dressing and adds a fun texture.
Add Protein: You can mix in some chopped or shredded chicken to turn this into a more filling dish.
Add Hard-Boiled Eggs: Chopped hard-boiled eggs are a great addition to the salad, giving it a little extra richness and flavor.
Spicy Hawaiian Macaroni Salad: If you like a bit of heat, add some diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the dressing for a spicy kick.
Vegan Version: Use a vegan mayo substitute and sour cream alternative for a dairy-free version of this salad.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Leftover Hawaiian Macaroni Salad can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors tend to develop more as it sits.
Freezing: It’s not recommended to freeze macaroni salad, as the texture of the pasta and vegetables can change upon thawing.
Reheating: This salad is best enjoyed cold or at room temperature, so there’s no need to reheat it.

FAQs

Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes, Hawaiian Macaroni Salad is perfect for making ahead! In fact, it’s best when it has had time to chill in the refrigerator for at least an hour to let the flavors meld together. You can also make it the night before.

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, you can substitute elbow macaroni with any small pasta, like rotini, penne, or shells. Just be sure to cook the pasta until it’s al dente so it holds up well in the salad.

Can I use a store-bought dressing for this salad?

While store-bought dressing can work in a pinch, homemade dressing adds a fresh, creamy element that’s hard to beat. If you need a shortcut, look for a simple mayo-based dressing or coleslaw dressing.

Can I add other vegetables to this salad?

Absolutely! You can add chopped bell peppers, peas, or even diced cucumbers for added crunch and color.

How do I make the salad more tangy?

To make the salad more tangy, add a little extra vinegar or squeeze in some lemon juice. You can also adjust the sugar to balance the tartness.

Conclusion

Hawaiian Macaroni Salad is a delightful, creamy side dish that’s perfect for warm weather and gatherings. With its rich, tangy dressing and refreshing crunch from the vegetables, it’s a dish that’s sure to be enjoyed by everyone at the table. It’s easy to make, customizable, and a great way to bring some tropical flavor to your meal. Whether you’re pairing it with grilled meats, a picnic spread, or serving it on its own, this salad will quickly become a staple in your recipe collection!