Authentic Hawaiian Macaroni Salad (Mac Salad): A Creamy Island Favorite
Dive into the comforting embrace of Hawaiian Macaroni Salad, affectionately known as Mac Salad across the islands. This iconic dish is more than just a side; it’s a creamy, tangy, and subtly sweet pasta salad that defines the spirit of Hawaiian comfort food. Featuring perfectly cooked elbow macaroni blended with a luscious, distinctive dressing, complemented by the vibrant crunch of grated carrots, the delicate bite of finely diced shallots or onions, and the tender richness of boiled eggs, Mac Salad is an essential component of any authentic Hawaiian plate lunch and a beloved staple at gatherings.
A Cherished Hawaiian Island Favorite Recipe with a Personal Touch
Among countless pasta salads, Hawaiian Macaroni Salad holds a special place in my heart, thanks to my dear friend, Leilani. A proud native Hawaiian, Leilani dedicated herself to sharing the true essence of Hawai’i with mainlanders like myself. She’d often playfully tease about the common misconception that simply adding pineapple made a dish “Hawaiian.” It was through her generosity that I received her family’s time-honored recipe for Mac Salad – a recipe I’ve lovingly prepared and cherished for many years, a true taste of Aloha.
This isn’t just any macaroni salad; it’s a cultural cornerstone, a humble yet profoundly satisfying dish found on nearly every plate lunch across the Hawaiian islands. Its unique balance of sweet, sour, and savory flavors, coupled with its irresistibly creamy texture, sets it apart. It’s the perfect counterpoint to savory meats like Kalua pork or Huli Huli chicken, offering a cool, refreshing, and rich accompaniment that truly completes a meal.
Frequently Asked Questions About Hawaiian Macaroni Salad
Absolutely! Many people enjoy the delightful addition of tuna to Hawaiian Mac Salad. Incorporating it is incredibly simple: prepare the recipe as instructed, then gently fold in one or two cans of well-drained tuna. If you’re a fan of a richer, more protein-packed salad, feel free to add a second can. For another variation, you could even experiment with adding a can of drained, shredded chicken for a different flavor profile.
Hawaiian Mac Salad is a quintessential component of the traditional “plate lunch,” which typically features two scoops of rice, a main entree, and a generous scoop of mac salad. It is most famously served alongside Kalua Pork, a delicious slow-cooked pulled pork. Beyond this classic pairing, it complements any type of pulled pork, savory BBQ ribs, or another iconic Hawaiian favorite, Huli Huli Chicken. Its creamy texture and balanced flavors make it a versatile side for virtually any grilled or roasted meat.
If shallots aren’t to your taste, you have excellent alternatives. A finely diced red onion will offer a sharper, more pungent flavor, while a sweet onion (like a Vidalia or Walla Walla) will provide a milder sweetness. I personally prefer shallots in this recipe because they are less assertive than regular onions, offering a very mild, almost garlicky undertone that enhances the overall flavor without overpowering the delicate dressing.
While elbow macaroni is the traditional choice and contributes significantly to the salad’s classic texture and ability to absorb the dressing, you can certainly use other small pasta shapes. Look for something similar in size and shape that can hold the creamy dressing well, such as small shells, ditalini, or even small penne. The key is to maintain a similar pasta-to-dressing ratio and ensure the pasta is cooked perfectly al dente.
Leftover Hawaiian Macaroni Salad should be covered tightly with plastic wrap or stored in an airtight container and refrigerated. It will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It’s important to note that the dressing can thicken slightly over time as the pasta continues to absorb it. If it seems too thick when serving leftovers, you can loosen it with a splash of milk or a little extra mayonnaise. Freezing this salad is not recommended, as it can alter the texture of both the pasta and the creamy dressing.
Mastering the Authentic Hawaiian Macaroni Salad Recipe
Crafting this beloved island dish is surprisingly straightforward, yet it yields incredible flavor. The secret lies in the quality of your ingredients and a few key techniques. Below, you’ll find a comprehensive guide to making the best Hawaiian Macaroni Salad right in your kitchen.
Essential Ingredients for Your Perfect Mac Salad
While the full detailed list is in the recipe card below, let’s briefly highlight the core components that give this salad its signature taste and texture:
- Elbow Macaroni: The classic choice for its shape and ability to hold dressing.
- Mayonnaise: The backbone of the creamy dressing. Opt for a good quality, full-fat mayonnaise for the best richness.
- Whole Milk: Thins out the dressing to the perfect consistency, ensuring it coats every noodle without being too heavy.
- Seasoned Rice Vinegar: Adds that characteristic tangy and slightly sweet “sweet and sour” balance. If unavailable, apple cider vinegar can be a substitute, adjusted to taste.
- Granulated Sugar: Balances the acidity of the vinegar and enhances the overall sweetness.
- Salt & Freshly Ground Black Pepper: Essential seasonings to bring out all the flavors.
- Celery Seed (Optional but Recommended): A subtle addition that provides a unique, earthy note often found in traditional versions.
- Grated Carrots: Adds a pop of color, a touch of sweetness, and a lovely textural contrast.
- Finely Diced Shallots (or Sweet Onion): Offers a mild aromatic flavor that complements the dressing without being too harsh.
- Boiled Eggs: Diced and mixed in for added richness and texture.
Step-by-Step Guide: How to Make Hawaiian Macaroni Salad
Follow these detailed steps to create your own irresistible batch of Hawaiian Mac Salad:
Step 1: Cook the Macaroni to Perfection
Begin by boiling your 16-ounce box of elbow macaroni according to the package directions. The goal is to cook the pasta until it’s perfectly al dente, which typically takes about 9 minutes. Al dente pasta holds its shape and provides a pleasant chew, crucial for a great pasta salad. Once cooked, drain the noodles thoroughly in a colander. Immediately rinse them under cold running water until they are completely cool. This step is vital for two reasons: it stops the cooking process, preventing mushy pasta, and it rinses off excess starch, helping the noodles absorb the dressing better without becoming clumpy. After rinsing, allow the noodles to drain very well again to remove any excess water. Transfer the cooled, drained macaroni to a large mixing bowl.
Step 2: Combine with Fresh Add-ins
To the large bowl containing your cooled macaroni, add 1 cup of shredded carrots, 3 tablespoons of finely diced shallot (or your preferred onion substitute), and 2 diced boiled eggs. These ingredients add flavor, texture, and visual appeal, making the salad more wholesome and vibrant.
Step 3: Prepare the Signature Dressing
In a separate medium-sized bowl, it’s time to create the magical dressing that makes this mac salad truly Hawaiian. Whisk together 2 cups of mayonnaise, ⅓ cup of whole milk, 2 tablespoons of seasoned rice vinegar, 2 teaspoons of granulated sugar, 1 teaspoon of salt, 1 teaspoon of freshly ground black pepper, and 1 teaspoon of celery seed (if using). Continue whisking vigorously for about 2 to 3 minutes, or until the granulated sugar is completely dissolved. A well-dissolved sugar ensures a smooth, non-gritty dressing texture.
Step 4: Dress and Mix
Pour the creamy, tangy dressing over the macaroni and other ingredients in the large bowl. Using a sturdy spatula or spoon, gently but thoroughly stir everything together until all the macaroni, carrots, shallots, and eggs are evenly coated with the luscious dressing. Ensure no dry spots remain, as proper coating is key to the salad’s signature creaminess.
Step 5: Chill to Perfection
Once mixed, cover the bowl tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least one hour. Chilling is a crucial step; it allows the flavors to meld beautifully, deepen, and for the pasta to fully absorb the dressing, resulting in that iconic creamy texture that Hawaiian Mac Salad is famous for. Serving it well-chilled enhances its refreshing quality.
Tips for the Perfect Hawaiian Macaroni Salad
- Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Mushy pasta is the enemy of any good pasta salad. Stick to al dente for the best texture.
- Rinse with Cold Water: This stops the cooking process and removes excess starch, which helps the dressing adhere better and prevents stickiness.
- Quality Mayonnaise Matters: Since mayonnaise is a primary ingredient, using a good quality, full-fat brand will significantly impact the flavor and creaminess.
- Dissolve the Sugar Fully: Whisking the dressing thoroughly ensures the sugar dissolves, resulting in a smooth, perfectly balanced dressing.
- Chill Time is Essential: Don’t skip the chilling step! It’s when the flavors truly develop and the pasta absorbs the dressing, achieving the desired creaminess.
- Adjust Consistency: If your salad seems too thick after chilling, you can thin it out with a small splash of milk or a tiny bit more mayonnaise until it reaches your desired consistency.
Serving Suggestions: What to Pair with Your Mac Salad
Hawaiian Macaroni Salad is the quintessential side for virtually any casual meal, barbecue, or potluck. Its versatility makes it a crowd-pleaser, but to truly experience it the Hawaiian way, pair it with the following:
- The Classic Plate Lunch: Serve alongside two scoops of white rice and your choice of protein like Kalua Pork, Huli Huli Chicken, or even Spam Musubi. This combination is the heart of Hawaiian comfort food.
- Kalua Pork: The smoky, tender slow-roasted pork is a match made in heaven with the creamy mac salad.
- Any type of Pulled Pork: Whether slow-cooked in a crock pot or smoked, pulled pork pairs wonderfully.
- BBQ Ribs: The rich, savory flavor of BBQ ribs is beautifully complemented by the tangy mac salad.
- Huli Huli Chicken: Grilled chicken marinated in a sweet and savory sauce is another traditional and delicious pairing.
- Grilled Fish or Shrimp: For a lighter option, the salad provides a refreshing contrast to fresh grilled seafood.
- Backyard Barbecues & Picnics: It’s sturdy enough to travel and always a hit at outdoor gatherings.
More Delicious Recipes to Explore
- Glazed Hawaiian Party Rolls
- Copycat Ruby Tuesday Pasta Salad
- Chicken Macaroni Salad
- BLT Macaroni Salad
- Tuna Macaroni Salad
- Orzo Pasta Salad
- Mom’s Macaroni Salad
- Creamy Cucumber Salad
- Amish Macaroni Salad
- Hawaiian Haystacks
- Hawaiian Chicken
- Hawaiian Poke Cake
Originally published: May 2016
Updated photos and republished: April 2024
Hawaiian Macaroni Salad
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Rate
10 minutes
20 minutes
30 minutes
8
Brandie Skibinski
Ingredients
-
16
ounce
box macaroni noodles -
1
cup
shredded carrots -
3
Tablespoons
finely diced shallot
(or sweet onion) -
2
boiled eggs, diced -
2
cups
mayonnaise -
⅓
cup
whole milk -
2
Tablespoons
seasoned rice vinegar
(or apple cider vinegar) -
2
teaspoons
granulated sugar -
1
teaspoon
salt -
1
teaspoon
freshly ground black pepper -
1
teaspoon
celery seed
(optional)
Instructions
- Boil 16 ounce box macaroni noodles according to box directions until al dente; about 9 minutes.
- Drain noodles, rinse under cold water until cool (allow to drain well again) then put into a large bowl.
- Add in 1 cup shredded carrots, 3 Tablespoons finely diced shallot and 2 boiled eggs, diced.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together 2 cups mayonnaise, 1/3 cup whole milk, 2 Tablespoons seasoned rice vinegar, 2 teaspoons granulated sugar, 1 teaspoon salt, 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper and 1 teaspoon celery seed. Whisk together until sugar is completely dissolved, about 2 minutes.
- Pour over noodles and stir.
- Cover with plastic wrap and chill for at least an hour before serving.
Video
Notes
- Please refer to my FAQ’s (Frequently Asked Questions) and ingredient list above for other substitutions or for the answers to the most common questions.
Salad
American
Nutrition
Calories:
344
kcal
|
Carbohydrates:
38
g
|
Protein:
5
g
|
Fat:
19
g
|
Sodium:
404
mg
|
Fiber:
2
g
|
Sugar:
12
g
Nutritional Disclaimer
“The Country Cook” is not a dietician or nutritionist, and any nutritional information shared is an estimate. If calorie count and other nutritional values are important to you, we recommend running the ingredients through whichever online nutritional calculator you prefer. Calories and other nutritional values can vary quite a bit depending on which brands were used.
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