Hawaiian Macaroni Salad

3.8/5 rating (11 votes)

Category: Side Dishes
Servings: 8-10
Print Recipe

Authentic Hawaiian macaroni salad is all about mayonnaise, and a LOT of it! Usually slightly overcooked (to absorb the dressing), it is a staple on their “lunch plates” alongside grilled, fried or teriyaki meats. Enjoy this simple tropical make-ahead side salad this summer!

Need a main dish for your luau? Grill up some Aloha Hula Hot Dogs for a Hawaiian twist on a classic cookout.

Ingredients

1 pound elbow macaroni
½ cup sweet pickle juice*
1 large carrot, grated
½ large onion, grated
1 small bunch green onions, diced
2½ cups mayonnaise
¾ cup milk
2 teaspoons sugar
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon black pepper

Directions

Cook macaroni per directions plus 2 minutes until soft. Drain. Stir in pickle juice. Cool 20 minutes.
Add carrot and onions. Combine remaining ingredients and mix into macaroni. Chill 4 hours, or overnight (best). If not moist and creamy, stir in more milk at serving time.

Remember, this salad is all about the “creaminess.”

*Vinegar with sugar can be substituted for pickle juice. This is important for mayonnaise absorption into the macaroni.