hawaiian macaroni salad recipe
The Best hawaiian macaroni salad recipe
I love this recipe because itās so versatile. You can make it ahead of time and itāll keep fresh in the fridge for days, which is perfect for meal prep or when youāre hosting a gathering. Itās easy to customize tooāswap out the macaroni for spaghetti or rotini if you prefer, or add in some diced bell peppers or a handful of chopped cilantro for extra freshness. And the health benefits? Well, itās got protein from the chicken or tofu, fiber from the veggies, and healthy fats from the dressing, so itās not just tastyāitās actually good for you too. My kids donāt even realize theyāre eating well because it tastes so good, which is the best part. Plus, itās got that tropical vibe that feels like a vacation without leaving the kitchen, and honestly, thatās something I appreciate. Itās a recipe thatās always a crowd-pleaser, whether youāre feeding a crowd or just yourself, and thatās why Iāll never tire of making it.
Classic Hawaiian Macaroni Salad
A refreshing and tangy macaroni salad inspired by Hawaiian flavors, featuring a creamy dressing with a hint of pineapple and a touch of sweetness from coconut milk. This recipe is a must-try for any occasion.
š„Ingredients
- 1 lb (450g) elbow macaroni
- 2 cups (480ml) water
- 1 tsp salt
- Ā½ cup (120ml) mayonnaise
- Ā¼ cup (60ml) sour cream
- Ā¼ cup (60ml) coconut milk
- Ā¼ cup (60ml) pineapple juice
- 2 tbsp (30ml) honey
- 1 tbsp (15ml) lemon juice
- 1 tsp (5g) Dijon mustard
- 1 tsp (5g) garlic powder
- Ā½ tsp (2g) onion powder
- Ā½ tsp (2g) salt
- Ā¼ tsp (1g) black pepper
- 1 cup (150g) diced ham
- Ā½ cup (75g) diced pineapple
- Ā¼ cup (30g) shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 tbsp (15g) chopped green onions
- 1 tbsp (15g) chopped cilantro
- 1 tbsp (15g) chopped red bell pepper
šØāš³Directions
-
1
Cook macaroni according to package instructions in salted boiling water until al dente. Drain, rinse under cold water, and let cool. Once cooled, drain excess water and transfer macaroni to a large mixing bowl. -
2
In a separate bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream, coconut milk, pineapple juice, honey, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper until smooth. -
3
Pour the dressing over the cooled macaroni and gently stir until fully coated. Let the macaroni sit for 10 minutes to absorb the flavors. -
4
In a small bowl, combine diced ham, diced pineapple, shredded cheese, green onions, cilantro, and red bell pepper. -
5
Once the macaroni dressing has rested, divide the macaroni evenly among serving bowls. Top each serving with the ham and pineapple mixture.
š§Equipment
- Large mixing bowl
- Cooking pot
- Colander
- Food processor or blender (optional)
- Whisk
- Plastic wrap or food storage container
šNutrition Facts (per serving)
šNotes
Tips
- For a lighter version, replace half the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt.
- Add diced cucumber or shredded carrots for extra crunch.
- Use fresh pineapple instead of canned for a sweeter taste.
Storage: {āfridgeā:āUp to 5 days in an airtight containerā,āfreezerā:āUp to 3 months (thaw before serving)ā}
Watch Video Of How Classic Hawaiian Macaroni Salad Works
ā Frequently Asked Questions About Hawaiian Macaroni Salad
What is the best way to prevent macaroni from turning mushy in Hawaiian Macaroni Salad?
To keep the macaroni firm, cook it al dente (slightly undercooked) and rinse it under cold water after cooking to stop the cooking process. Then, drain well and toss it with the cold dressing to prevent sogginess.
Can I use any type of mayonnaise in this recipe, or should I stick to a specific brand?
While any good-quality mayonnaise works, some people prefer brands with a slightly tangy or creamy texture for the best flavor. For a richer taste, consider using a homemade mayo or a high-quality store-bought version like Hellmannās or Hellmannās Original.
How do I make the Hawaiian Macaroni Salad extra crispy?
To ensure a crunchy texture, store the salad in an airtight container with parchment paper or a paper towel between layers to absorb excess moisture. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving, and serve it cold.
Can I make Hawaiian Macaroni Salad ahead of time, and how should I store it?
Yes, this salad is perfect for meal prep! Store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. To maintain crispiness, eat it within 2ā3 days or reheat gently (though reheating may soften the texture).
What are some variations I can try with the traditional Hawaiian Macaroni Salad?
You can swap in ingredients like diced pineapple (if using), shredded carrots, or even add diced ham or chicken for extra protein. Some variations include adding a touch of honey or a sprinkle of smoked paprika for extra flavor.
