Authentic Hawaiian Macaroni Salad

Name: Authentic Hawaiian Macaroni Salad
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 4 h 25 min
Cuisine: Hawaiian
Ingredients: 1 pound macaroni; 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar; 2 carrots (shredded); ¼ cup shredded onion (optional); 2 ½ cups mayonnaise (Best Foods or Hellman’s, no substitutes!); ¼ cup milk; 2 teaspoons sugar; Kosher salt, to taste; Ground black pepper, to taste

Posted on May 12, 2026

Authentic Hawaiian Macaroni Salad with creamy dressing, celery, and macaroni pasta

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why make this recipe

Authentic Hawaiian Macaroni Salad is a delightful and creamy side dish that perfectly accompanies any meal. It is a staple in Hawaiian cuisine and is beloved for its simple flavors and comforting texture. This salad is not only easy to make, but it also brings a taste of the islands to your table. Whether you’re hosting a luau, a picnic, or just a casual dinner, this macaroni salad is sure to please everyone.

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how to make Authentic Hawaiian Macaroni Salad

Ingredients

1 pound macaroni
2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
2 carrots (shredded)
¼ cup shredded onion (optional)
2 ½ cups Mayonnaise (Best Foods or Hellman’s mayonnaise, no substitutes!)
¼ cup milk
2 teaspoons sugar
Kosher salt, to taste
Ground black pepper, to taste

Directions

Cook macaroni according to package directions. Rinse under cold water until completely cool. Drain well and place in a large bowl.
Sprinkle on vinegar. Add carrot and onion. Toss together until well combined. Refrigerate for 15 minutes, or until cooled.
In a separate, small bowl, whisk together mayo, milk, and sugar. Fold the mayo mixture into the macaroni until all the noodles are evenly coated. Add salt and pepper to taste.
Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours (best if overnight).
Gently stir before serving, add a little more milk if needed, no more than a tablespoon or two.

how to serve Authentic Hawaiian Macaroni Salad

Serve this macaroni salad chilled as a side dish. It goes wonderfully with grilled meats, fish, or even just on its own. For a festive touch, you can serve it in a large bowl garnished with chopped parsley or green onions.

how to store Authentic Hawaiian Macaroni Salad

To store leftovers, place the macaroni salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for about 3 to 4 days. If the salad becomes too thick after refrigeration, stir in a little extra milk to restore its creamy texture.

tips to make Authentic Hawaiian Macaroni Salad

Make sure to rinse the macaroni well after cooking to stop the cooking process and keep the noodles firm.
Using high-quality mayonnaise, like Best Foods or Hellman’s, is essential for achieving the right flavor and creaminess.
Allow the salad to chill for several hours or overnight to let the flavors blend beautifully.

variation

You can add some proteins to this salad, like diced ham or chicken, for a heartier version. You could also substitute or add in bell peppers, peas, or celery for a crunchy twist.

Authentic Hawaiian Macaroni Salad is a creamy island-style side dish packed with tender macaroni and rich tangy dressing, making it perfect for BBQs, luaus, or family dinners.

For more delicious comfort food ideas, enjoy these Big Mac-style cheeseburger sliders or try this Hawaiian macaroni salad recipe. You can also discover these oven-baked cheeseburger sliders for the perfect meal pairing.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, you can use other pasta shapes like shells or elbow macaroni, but traditional recipes use elbow macaroni.

2. Is this salad gluten-free?
No, this salad is not gluten-free due to the macaroni. However, you can use gluten-free pasta to make a gluten-free version.

3. How can I make this salad healthier?
You can use light mayonnaise and add more shredded vegetables like bell peppers or peas to increase the nutritional value without sacrificing flavor.