There’s something special about Hawaiian mac salad recipe. The first time I had it was in a tiny beachside shack on the North Shore of Oahu. I was handed a plate lunch with grilled teriyaki chicken, sticky rice, and a generous scoop of the creamiest, most addictive macaroni salad I’d ever tasted. That scoop of Hawaiian mac salad wasn’t an afterthought, it was the soul of the plate.
Hawaiian mac salad is a must-have in any plate lunch, picnic, or potluck. Its creamy texture, gentle tang, and simple ingredients make it a beloved comfort food across the islands. And the best part? It’s incredibly easy to make at home. Whether you’re planning a summer BBQ, dreaming of a tropical escape, or simply craving something hearty and chilled, this Hawaiian mac salad recipe fits the bill.
In this post, I’ll walk you through the essential steps for making authentic Hawaiian mac salad, share pro tips I’ve learned through trial and error, and offer fun variants that let you make this dish your own.
Table of contents
Why This Hawaiian Mac Salad Recipe Works Every Time
This Hawaiian mac salad recipe captures the heart of the island-style classic. The trick is in the balance, super tender macaroni (slightly overcooked), a rich mayo-based dressing with a touch of tang from vinegar, and a bit of sweetness to round it out.
What makes this recipe stand out is its use of simple ingredients that work harmoniously together. Overcooking the pasta slightly helps it absorb more dressing, which gives the dish that velvety texture island locals love. The dressing itself isn’t just mayonnaise. It’s elevated with apple cider vinegar, a splash of milk, and a tiny bit of sugar. Some folks even add a touch of grated onion or a hint of mustard for a bit more depth.
This recipe is also wonderfully customizable. You can:
- Add shredded carrots for color and crunch
- Stir in some chopped celery or scallions for freshness
- Use Kewpie mayo for a richer, slightly sweeter taste
- Make it vegetarian or vegan by swapping in plant-based mayo and milk
Plus, it can be made ahead and tastes even better after chilling for a few hours. That makes it a great option for hosting, meal prepping, or bringing to gatherings. Hawaiian mac salad may be humble in ingredients, but when made right, it becomes unforgettable.
Recipe Card
Hawaiian Mac Salad Recipe
8
servings15
minutes10
minutes350
kcalA creamy and tangy Hawaiian Mac Salad, perfect for barbecues and gatherings. This easy-to-make dish combines macaroni, mayonnaise, and vegetables for a delightful side.
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Ingredients
2 cups elbow macaroni
1 cup mayonnaise
1/2 cup milk
1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
1/4 cup grated carrot
1/4 cup finely chopped onion
1/4 cup finely chopped celery
Salt and pepper to taste
Directions
- Cook the macaroni: Boil the macaroni in salted water until tender. Drain and rinse with cold water.
- Prepare the dressing: In a bowl, mix mayonnaise, milk, and apple cider vinegar until smooth.
- Combine ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the cooked macaroni, grated carrot, chopped onion, and chopped celery.
- Add the dressing: Pour the dressing over the macaroni mixture and stir until well coated.
- Season: Add salt and pepper to taste.
- Chill: Refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving to allow flavors to meld.
Notes
- For a richer flavor, let the salad chill overnight.
- Adjust the amount of mayonnaise and milk to achieve your desired creaminess.
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Pro Tips to Nail Your Hawaiian Mac Salad
- Use fresh ingredients: Fresh vegetables add a crisp texture and vibrant flavor.
- Don’t overcook the macaroni: Al dente pasta holds up better in the salad.
- Customize your salad: Add pineapple chunks or ham for a unique twist.
- Chill thoroughly: This salad tastes best when well-chilled, allowing the flavors to blend.
Switch It Up: Fun Variations on Hawaiian Mac Salad
Spicy Hawaiian Mac Salad
Add a pinch of cayenne or a squirt of Sriracha to the dressing for a bit of a kick. This is great if you’re pairing it with grilled meats or fried chicken.
Protein-Packed Hawaiian Mac Salad
Stir in chopped boiled eggs, diced ham, or shredded rotisserie chicken to make it more of a meal. This version is perfect for weekday lunches.
Vegan Hawaiian Mac Salad
Swap in your favorite vegan mayo and unsweetened plant-based milk. Use agave in place of sugar if desired. The result is still creamy and satisfying.
Tropical Hawaiian Mac Salad
Fold in diced pineapple and a handful of toasted coconut flakes for a unique twist. It adds a little sweetness and texture that pairs beautifully with BBQ ribs .
FAQs & Fixes: Everything You Need to Know
Elbow macaroni is the classic choice for Hawaiian mac salad. It’s small, holds the dressing well, and creates the traditional texture. However, you can use other small pasta shapes, such as shells or rotini, if preferred.
If your mac salad becomes too dry after sitting, simply add a little more mayonnaise or a splash of milk to loosen it up. You can also adjust the seasoning at this point, adding more salt or vinegar to taste.
Always cold. It’s meant to be served chilled, typically as part of a Hawaiian plate lunch with meat and rice. The cool, creamy texture complements warm grilled foods perfectly.
Wrapping It Up
Hawaiian mac salad is so much more than just a side dish. It’s a nostalgic, flavor-packed reminder of island hospitality and the comfort of simple, well-balanced ingredients. Whether you’re recreating a classic Hawaiian plate lunch or just need a reliable dish to bring to your next gathering, this creamy salad checks all the boxes.
It’s easy to make, budget-friendly, and endlessly adaptable. Plus, it gets better as it sits, which makes it a lifesaver when you’re short on time. Try pairing it with teriyaki chicken, or even a simple grilled burger. If you’re feeling adventurous, don’t miss the Tropical variation with pineapple and coconut, it’s unexpectedly good.
If you are looking for another fresh and tasty salad, I propose you try the Chicken Salad Chick Recipe!
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