This Hawaiian Mac Salad is creamy and filled with simple goodness! It combines tender macaroni, crunchy vegetables, and a rich dressing that brings all the flavors together.
It’s perfect for summer picnics or just a quick side dish. I love how easy it is to whip up—just mix and chill. Trust me, everyone will be asking for seconds! 🍽️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Elbow Macaroni: Elbow macaroni is a classic choice for this salad, providing a nice shape that holds dressing well. If you’re looking for a gluten-free option, consider using rice pasta or quinoa pasta instead.
Mayonnaise: Traditional mayo gives this salad its creamy texture. If you’re watching calories or prefer a lighter option, try Greek yogurt or a vegan mayo for a dairy-free version.
Celery and Carrots: These veggies add crunch and freshness. If you don’t have celery, you can substitute with bell peppers or cucumber for a similar crispness. For carrots, grated zucchini can work too.
Pineapple: The diced pineapple adds an authentic Hawaiian twist. If fresh pineapple isn’t available, canned pineapple works just as well. Just make sure to drain it to keep the salad from getting watery.
How Do I Ensure My Macaroni is Perfectly Cooked?
Cooking the macaroni properly is key to a great salad. Follow these steps to avoid mushy pasta:
- Start by boiling a large pot of salted water. The salt adds flavor to the pasta.
- Add the elbow macaroni and stir to prevent sticking. Cook until al dente, which means it’ll be firm when bitten.
- Once cooked, drain the pasta and immediately rinse it under cold water. This stops the cooking process and cools it down quickly.
Following these tips ensures each bite of your mac salad has the right texture and taste! Enjoy mixing everything together afterward.
How to Make Food Truck Hawaiian Mac Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 2 cups elbow macaroni
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 1 cup chopped celery
- 1 cup shredded carrots
- 1/2 cup diced red onion
Seasonings and Add-Ins:
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: 1/2 cup diced pineapple (for an authentic Hawaiian touch)
- Optional: Chopped scallions or parsley for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful Hawaiian Mac Salad will take you about 20 minutes to prepare, plus 1 hour in the fridge for chilling. So, overall, plan for about 1 hour and 20 minutes to have this delicious dish ready to serve!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Macaroni:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. Once cooked, drain the macaroni and rinse it under cold water to cool it down. This prevents it from getting mushy in the salad.
2. Make the Dressing:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the mayonnaise, chopped celery, shredded carrots, diced red onion, garlic powder, apple cider vinegar, and sugar. Stir everything together until it’s well mixed and creamy. This dressing will bring all the flavors together!
3. Combine the Macaroni and Dressing:
Add the cooled macaroni to the bowl with the dressing. Mix everything together carefully until all the pasta is coated in that delicious creamy mixture. If you want some extra tropical sweetness, now’s the time to gently fold in the diced pineapple!
4. Season and Chill:
Season your salad with salt and pepper to taste, adjusting as necessary to make it just right for you. Once seasoned, cover the bowl and pop it in the fridge for at least 1 hour. This chilling time lets all those yummy flavors meld together.
5. Serve and Enjoy:
Before you’re ready to serve, give the salad a good stir to combine everything again. If you like, you can garnish it with chopped scallions or parsley for a fresh touch. Serve it chilled and enjoy your Food Truck Hawaiian Mac Salad!
Can I Use Different Pasta for This Salad?
Absolutely! While elbow macaroni is traditional, you can substitute it with any short pasta like fusilli, penne, or even shell pasta. Just make sure to cook it according to the package instructions and cool it down with cold water after draining.
What Can I Substitute for Mayonnaise?
If you’re looking for a healthier alternative, you can use Greek yogurt in place of mayonnaise for a lighter salad. It will give a similar creaminess with added protein. You can also mix half mayonnaise and half yogurt for a balanced flavor.
How Long Does This Salad Keep?
This Hawaiian Mac Salad will keep well in the refrigerator for 3 to 5 days in an airtight container. Just give it a good stir before serving again, as the dressing may settle a bit.
Can I Add Other Vegetables or Proteins?
Of course! Feel free to add finely chopped bell peppers, peas, or even cubed ham or crab for a protein boost. Just remember to keep the flavors balanced and adjust the dressing accordingly if you add more ingredients.
