This authentic Hawaiian macaroni salad is the real deal - perfectly creamy, slightly tangy, and absolutely delicious! With tender elbow macaroni and a simple mayonnaise dressing, this iconic side dish brings the taste of Hawaii right to your table.
If you've ever had a traditional Hawaiian plate lunch with scoops of white rice and mac salad alongside grilled meat, you'll know exactly why this recipe is a must-have!
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When I vacationed in Maui, the most fabulous little restaurant served fresh fish for dinner with a scoop of traditional Hawaiian macaroni salad.
Every local plate lunch spot had its own version, and I was determined to recreate that perfect balance of creamy, tangy flavor at home. After much testing, I found that this recipe nails the authentic taste that transported me back to the islands!
Serve it with grilled smash burgers, Trager smoked corn on the cob, and Smoked Pineapple on Pellet Grill for a delicious Hawaiian-inspired meal!
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Why You'll Love It
- Authentically creamy: Uses the perfect ratio of mayo to create that signature texture Hawaii is known for.
- Simple ingredients: Made with everyday pantry staples for an easy side dish.
- Make-ahead friendly: Tastes even better the next day, perfect for meal prep.
Recipe Ingredients
*A complete list of ingredients and amounts can be found in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.*
- Elbow Macaroni, cooked al dente.
- Mayonnaise: Use Hellmann's mayo or your preferred brand.
- Whole Milk to make the dressing creamy.
- Apple Cider Vinegar adds a tangy flavor to the dressing.
- Sugar: Just a bit for sweetness.
- Celery Ribs: Finely chopped for crunch.
- Green Onions, finely chopped.
- Red Onion: Optional, but adds great flavor.
How to Make Hawaiian Macaroni Salad
For step-by-step instructions with detailed measurements, jump to the recipe card.
- Cook the Macaroni: In a large pot of salted water, cook the macaroni noodles until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process.
- Prepare the Dressing: In a large bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, whole milk, apple cider vinegar, sugar, salt, and black pepper until smooth and creamy.
- Combine Ingredients: Add the cooked pasta, celery, green onions, and red onion to the bowl with the dressing. Stir gently until everything is evenly coated.
- Chill: Transfer the salad to an airtight container and refrigerate for at least an hour. This allows the flavors to meld and the salad to chill properly.
- Serve: Stir the salad before serving to redistribute the dressing. Serve chilled and enjoy with your favorite Hawaiian dishes, such as kalua pork or teriyaki chicken.
Top Tips
- Al Dente Pasta: Ensure the macaroni is cooked al dente to avoid a mushy texture.
- Cold Water Rinse: Rinse the pasta under cold water to cool it quickly.
- Generous Dressing: Don't skimp on the dressing - it's what gives this salad its creamy texture and tangy flavor.
- Chill Before Serving: This salad tastes best when served cold, so make sure to chill it for at least an hour.
- Make Ahead: Prepare this salad a day in advance for even better flavor.
Variations
While the classic Hawaiian mac salad is relatively simple, here are some popular additions:
- Sprinkle finely chopped green onions or shredded carrots for extra color.
- Add a dusting of paprika for garnish.
- Garnish with slices of hard-boiled eggs.
- Add crumbled bacon bits.
- Garnish with fresh parsley, cilantro, or dill.
- Add some sweetness with small chunks of pineapple.
What to Serve with Hawaiian Macaroni Salad
Make your own Hawaiian plate lunch with Smoked Huli Huli Chicken, Grilled Teriyaki Chicken, Double Smoked Ham, Kalua Pork, Instant Pot White Rice, and Smoked Pineapple.
Or pair it with backyard favorites like Smoked Steak, Smoked Shrimp, Instant Pot Ribs, and Smoked Burgers.
Storage and Make Ahead
- Make ahead: This salad tastes even better after a day in the fridge as flavors meld.
- Storage: Keep in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Refresh before serving: If the salad seems dry after storage, stir in a splash of milk or mayo to restore creaminess.
Recipe FAQs
Authentic Hawaiian mac salad uses a higher ratio of mayonnaise than typical mainland pasta salads, creating its signature creamy texture.
While you could, traditional Hawaiian mac salad is always made with elbow macaroni.
It has a subtle sweetness from the mayo and vegetables, but isn't overtly sweet like some mainland versions.
Yes, by using gluten-free pasta.
More Delicious Side Dishes
Printable Recipe
Authentic Hawaiian Macaroni Salad
Ingredients
- 1 pound elbow macaroni
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- ½ cup whole milk
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ cup celery finely diced
- ½ cup red onion finely diced
Instructions
- COOK: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook elbow macaroni according to the package directions until it is al dente. Drain and rinse pasta under cold water until cool. Drain well.1 pound elbow macaroni
- MIX: In a large bowl, combine mayonnaise, milk, apple cider vinegar, sugar, salt, and black pepper. Whisk until smooth and creamy.1 cup mayonnaise, ½ cup whole milk, 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar, 2 tablespoons granulated sugar, ½ tsp salt, ¼ tsp black pepper
- COMBINE: Add the cooked, cooled pasta to the bowl with the dressing. Add the chopped celery and red onion to the bowl and toss to combine.½ cup celery, ½ cup red onion
- CHILL: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or transfer to an airtight container. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour, preferably 4+ hours or overnight.
- SERVE: Before serving, stir well and taste for seasoning. If the salad seems dry, add 1-2 tablespoons of milk or additional mayonnaise to reach the desired creaminess. Enjoy!
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Notes
- Authentic Hawaiian mac salad uses pasta cooked al dente.
- Hellmann's mayonnaise creates the most authentic flavor.
- This salad tastes even better after refrigerating overnight.
- Grating the onion helps it incorporate better into the creamy dressing.
Nutrition
The provided nutrition information is automatically calculated. Accuracy is not guaranteed.
Mike W says
I made the hawaiian macaroni salad this weekend, and it was good!
I used rotini noodles and those might soak up more liquid, so next time ill add a bit more, but yeah will make again
Jeri Walker says
Thanks Mike! I'm glad you liked it! 🙂
Mike W says
Absolutely Jeri, my wife and i live in Frankfort ,Ohio, with our 8 children, i greatly enjoy smoking meat and cooking for family and friends, so always looking for tips an recipes, appreciate your variety of recipes and great instructions! 👍🏼😋
Amy Liu Dong says
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