Hawaiian Macaroni Salad

Hawaiian cuisine is a vibrant tapestry woven from the islands' rich cultural history and the diverse influences of its inhabitants. The culinary landscape of Hawaii is marked by a fusion of flavors that reflect its multicultural heritage, combining elements from native Hawaiian, Asian, and American cooking traditions. One dish that beautifully exemplifies this unique culinary style is Hawaiian Macaroni Salad. Known for its creamy texture and delightful combination of flavors, this salad is not just a side dish; it is a beloved staple that graces tables during gatherings, picnics, and barbecues across the islands.

Discover the delightful taste of Hawaiian Macaroni Salad with this easy recipe that reflects the islands' culinary heritage. Featuring creamy mayonnaise, sweet pineapple, and savory diced ham or Spam, this dish is perfect for gatherings, picnics, or barbecues. Learn about the key ingredients that elevate its flavor, including crunchy bell peppers and tangy apple cider vinegar. Bring the vibrant spirit of Hawaii to your table with this comforting and refreshing salad that’s sure to impress your family and friends. Enjoy sharing a taste of aloha!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Ingredients

2 cups elbow macaroni

1 cup mayonnaise (preferably a Hawaiian-style or a tangy variety)

1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar

1 tablespoon Dijon mustard

1 tablespoon granulated sugar

1 cup diced ham (or Spam for an authentic touch)

1 cup crushed pineapple (well-drained)

1/2 cup diced green bell pepper

1/2 cup finely grated carrots

1/4 cup chopped green onions

Salt and black pepper to taste

Optional: 1/4 cup shredded coconut for topping

Instructions

Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook according to package instructions until al dente, typically around 7-8 minutes. Once cooked, drain the pasta and rinse it under cold water to halt the cooking process. Spread the macaroni out on a clean surface or a tray to cool completely.

Prepare the Dressing: In a medium-sized mixing bowl, combine the mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, and granulated sugar. Whisk these ingredients vigorously until you achieve a smooth and creamy consistency. Taste the dressing and adjust the seasoning with salt and black pepper as needed.

Mix Salad Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled macaroni with the diced ham, well-drained crushed pineapple, diced green bell pepper, grated carrots, and chopped green onions. Use a spatula to gently fold the ingredients together, ensuring even distribution.

Combine Dressing with Salad: Pour the prepared dressing over the macaroni salad mixture. Gently toss everything together until the pasta and vegetables are thoroughly coated in the dressing, ensuring you don’t break up the macaroni too much during the mixing process.

Chill the Salad: Cover the mixing bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate the salad for at least 1 hour, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully together. For optimal flavor infusion, consider chilling it overnight.

Serve: Prior to serving, give the salad a gentle stir to redistribute the dressing. If desired, garnish the top with shredded coconut for an extra tropical touch. Taste for final seasoning adjustments and enjoy your Hawaiian Macaroni Salad as a delightful and refreshing side dish!

Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 20 minutes | 1 hour, 20 minutes | 6-8 servings