Authentic Hawaiian Macaroni Salad

The macaroni salad in a white serving dish, topped with chopped fresh parsley.

5 from 8 votes

Authentic Hawaiian Macaroni Salad

This authentic Hawaiian macaroni salad brings the flavor of traditional plate lunches to your table! Perfectly creamy with just the right amount of tanginess - it's a delicious side dish that pairs with everything from grilled chicken to smoked meat!

Prep Time15

Cook Time10

Chill Time1

Total Time1 25

Course: All Recipes, Salad, Side Dish

Cuisine: American

Servings: servings

Calories: 427kcal

Author: Jeri Walker

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!

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