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 13, 2026

Authentic Hawaiian macaroni salad with creamy dressing, carrots, and green onions

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why make this recipe

Authentic Hawaiian Macaroni Salad is a beloved side dish that brings the taste of sunny Hawaii straight to your table. It’s creamy, tangy, and full of flavor. This dish is perfect for summer barbecues, family gatherings, or any time you want a refreshing side. It pairs wonderfully with grilled meats or seafood. Plus, it’s simple to make and can be prepared ahead of time, making it an easy choice for busy cooks.

Table of Contents

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 teaspoon 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 the vinegar over the macaroni. Add the shredded carrots and onion (if using). Toss everything together until well combined. Refrigerate for 15 minutes, or until cooled.
In a separate small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, milk, and sugar. Fold this 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 (overnight is best).
Gently stir before serving. If needed, add a little more milk, no more than a tablespoon or two.

how to serve Authentic Hawaiian Macaroni Salad

Serve this dish chilled as a side at your next barbecue or picnic. You can also enjoy it as a light meal on its own. It’s an excellent addition to a plate of grilled chicken, ribs, or fish. Garnish with a sprinkle of paprika or chopped green onions for a pop of color.

how to store Authentic Hawaiian Macaroni Salad

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for about 3 to 5 days. If the salad becomes too thick, you can stir in a bit more milk before serving to regain its creamy texture.

tips to make Authentic Hawaiian Macaroni Salad

For added flavor, consider mixing in diced celery or bell peppers.
Use high-quality mayonnaise for a richer taste, as it is a key ingredient.
Allow the salad to chill overnight for the best flavor.

variation

If you want to mix things up, try adding chopped hard-boiled eggs, diced pickles, or even pineapple chunks for a sweeter twist.

Authentic Hawaiian Macaroni Salad is creamy, comforting, and packed with classic island-style flavor that makes it perfect for BBQs, potlucks, and family gatherings.

For more delicious side dishes and desserts, enjoy this creamy Hawaiian macaroni salad recipe or try this easy crowd-size macaroni salad recipe. You can also discover this festive American flag fruit pizza for the perfect party dessert.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, you can use other types of pasta, such as elbow, fusilli, or rotini. Just make sure to cook it according to the package directions.

Is this macaroni salad gluten-free?
The traditional recipe uses regular macaroni, which contains gluten. However, you can substitute gluten-free pasta for a gluten-free version.

Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Absolutely! In fact, it’s best when made a day in advance as it allows the flavors to meld together. Just keep it refrigerated until you’re ready to serve.

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