Ingredients
1 lb (450g) Elbow macaroni
2 cups (480ml) Mayonnaise
1/4 cup (60ml) Milk
2 tbsp Apple cider vinegar
1 tbsp Sugar
1/2 cup Carrots, grated
1/2 cup Celery, finely chopped
Salt, To taste
Black pepper, To taste
Instructions
1. Cook the Macaroni: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add elbow macaroni and cook until very tender, about 1-2 minutes longer than package directions. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop cooking. Let it drain well.
2. Prepare the Dressing: In a bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, milk, apple cider vinegar, and sugar until smooth and creamy.
3. Mix the Salad: In a large bowl, combine the cooled macaroni, grated carrots, and chopped celery. Pour the dressing over the top and stir gently until everything is well coated.
4. Season and Chill: Add salt and black pepper to taste. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or preferably overnight, to let the flavors meld.
5. Serve: Give the salad a final stir before serving. If needed, add a splash of milk for extra creaminess. Enjoy cold as a side dish.
Notes
Pro-Tips for the Best Hawaiian Macaroni Salad:
• Don’t Undercook the Pasta: Unlike Italian pasta salads, Hawaiian Macaroni Salad uses very tender macaroni. Cook it a minute or two longer than al dente for that signature soft texture.
• Make the Dressing Creamy: Whisk the mayonnaise with milk and vinegar until smooth. This creates a pourable dressing that coats every noodle.
• Season the Pasta Water: Add plenty of salt to the boiling water—it’s your only chance to flavor the pasta itself.
• Let It Rest: After mixing, refrigerate the salad for at least 2 hours (or overnight). This allows the pasta to absorb the dressing, making it extra creamy.
• Adjust Before Serving: If the salad seems dry after chilling, stir in a splash of milk or a spoonful of mayo to revive the creaminess.
Delicious Variations to Try:
• Add Protein: Mix in diced ham, shredded chicken, or cooked shrimp for a heartier salad.
• Fruit Twist: Add diced pineapple or mandarin oranges for a sweet, tropical flair.
• Spicy Kick: Stir in a bit of sriracha or diced jalapeños for a spicy version that pairs well with grilled meats.
- Prep Time: 15
- Cook Time: 10
- Category: One Pot Dishes
- Method: Boil and Mix
- Cuisine: Hawaiian
- Diet: Vegetarian