Classic Hawaiian Macaroni Salad
Experience the taste of Hawaii with this delightful Classic Hawaiian Macaroni Salad! Creamy, tangy, and filled with fresh ingredients, this salad is a staple in Hawaiian cuisine, perfect for barbecues, potlucks, or simply a refreshing side dish for any meal. With a blend of soft elbow macaroni, crunchy vegetables, and a luscious mayonnaise dressing, this versatile salad brings the Aloha spirit to your table. Serve it chilled for a refreshing treat that everyone will love.
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
10
Ingredients
Ingredients
elbow macaroni
1 lb (uncooked)
carrot
1/4 cup (finely chopped)
onion
1/4 cup (very finely minced)
Best Foods Mayonnaise
1/2 cup (none)
milk
1/4 cup (none)
sugar
1 tablespoon (to taste)
salt
to taste (none)
black pepper
to taste (fresh cracked)
paprika
optional (for garnish)
vinegar
1 tablespoon (or more, optional)
Instructions
1
1. Cook the elbow macaroni according to the instructions on the package until very soft or al dente, depending on your preference. Drain the pasta and rinse it under cold water. Allow it to cool for approximately 10-15 minutes.
2
2. Once the pasta has cooled, transfer it to a large mixing bowl. Add the finely chopped carrot and mix until evenly distributed.
3
3. Add the very finely minced onion to the pasta and vegetable mixture, ensuring it's well blended. For an authentic taste, it should be juicy, resembling the technique used at local eateries.
4
4. In a separate bowl, combine the Best Foods Mayonnaise and milk, stirring until smooth. Gradually pour this creamy mixture over the macaroni, stirring gently to combine the flavors.
5
5. Season the salad with salt, fresh cracked black pepper, and paprika (if desired). Taste and adjust the amount of mayonnaise and milk according to your preference, as well as with additional sugar or vinegar if you like.
6
6. Once everything is well combined, cover the salad and refrigerate for at least an hour before serving to allow the flavors to meld together.
7
7. Serve chilled, garnished with a sprinkle of paprika, if desired.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Classic Hawaiian Macaroni Salad?
Classic Hawaiian Macaroni Salad is a creamy, tangy, and refreshing pasta salad that is a staple in Hawaiian cuisine, typically served at barbecues and potlucks.
What type of pasta is best for this recipe?
Elbow macaroni is the traditional choice for this salad. The recipe calls for 1 lb of uncooked elbow macaroni.
How long should I cook the macaroni?
Cook the macaroni according to the package instructions until it is very soft or al dente, depending on your personal preference.
Why should I rinse the pasta under cold water?
Rinsing the pasta under cold water stops the cooking process and allows it to cool down quickly before mixing with the dressing.
How long should the pasta cool before adding other ingredients?
You should allow the cooked and rinsed macaroni to cool for approximately 10 to 15 minutes before proceeding.
What is the secret to the onion in Hawaiian Macaroni Salad?
For an authentic taste, the onion should be very finely minced so it is juicy, mimicking the style of local Hawaiian eateries.
Which brand of mayonnaise is recommended?
Best Foods Mayonnaise is specifically recommended for this recipe to achieve the classic creamy flavor.
Why is milk added to the dressing?
Milk is combined with the mayonnaise to create a smoother, more luscious dressing that coats the pasta evenly.
Is there sugar in Hawaiian Macaroni Salad?
Yes, the recipe suggests 1 tablespoon of sugar, though you can adjust this amount to your personal taste.
How much vinegar should I use?
The recipe calls for 1 tablespoon of vinegar, which is optional but helps add a signature tang to the salad.
What vegetables are included in the salad?
The salad includes 1/4 cup of finely chopped carrot and 1/4 cup of very finely minced onion.
How do I season the salad?
Season the salad with salt, fresh cracked black pepper, and paprika to taste.
Is paprika required for this recipe?
Paprika is optional and can be used both as a seasoning in the mix and as a garnish for color.
How long does the salad need to refrigerate?
The salad should be refrigerated for at least one hour before serving to allow the flavors to meld together.
Can I adjust the amount of mayonnaise?
Yes, you can taste and adjust the amount of mayonnaise and milk after mixing to reach your desired level of creaminess.
How should I serve Hawaiian Macaroni Salad?
It should be served chilled, and you can garnish it with a sprinkle of paprika if desired.
What makes this salad suitable for potlucks?
Its creamy texture and refreshing taste make it a versatile side dish that pairs well with many grilled meats and main courses.
Should the carrot be cooked?
No, the carrot should be finely chopped and added raw to provide a fresh crunch to the salad.
Can I make the dressing in the same bowl as the pasta?
It is recommended to combine the mayonnaise and milk in a separate bowl first to ensure the mixture is smooth before pouring it over the macaroni.
Is this recipe spicy?
No, this is a mild and creamy salad. The black pepper and paprika provide flavor rather than heat.
Can I substitute the elbow macaroni?
While elbow macaroni is traditional, you could use other small pasta shapes like ditalini or shells in a pinch.
How much carrot is needed for the recipe?
The recipe requires 1/4 cup of finely chopped carrot.
What tags describe this recipe?
Common tags for this recipe include Hawaiian salad, macaroni salad, sides, potluck, creamy salad, and summer salad.
Is the onion amount flexible?
Yes, while 1/4 cup is recommended, you can adjust the amount of minced onion to suit your taste preferences.
Does this recipe contain fiber?
The recipe contains a small amount of fiber from the macaroni and carrots, though specific nutritional values are not provided.
Can I use a different type of milk?
The recipe simply calls for milk; while whole milk provides the most richness, you can use what you have on hand.
How do I ensure the salad isn't dry?
The combination of mayonnaise and milk, along with a touch of vinegar, ensures the salad stays moist and creamy.
Is it okay to serve this immediately?
It is best to wait at least an hour while it chills, as the flavors develop significantly during the refrigeration period.
Is this a good side for a summer meal?
Yes, it is specifically described as a refreshing side dish perfect for any meal, especially in the summer.
What is the first step in making this salad?
The first step is to cook the elbow macaroni until it reaches your preferred level of softness.