Authentic Hawaiian Macaroni Salad

Here’s a classic, authentic Hawaiian Macaroni Salad recipe — creamy, tangy, and simple, just like the ones served with plate lunches across Hawaii. The secret? Overcooked pasta and a mellow, sweet-tangy dressing that soaks in perfectly.

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🌺 Authentic Hawaiian Macaroni Salad

🍝 Ingredients:

• 1 lb elbow macaroni

• 1 cup mayonnaise (preferably Best Foods or Hellmann’s)

• ¼ cup whole milk

• ¼ cup apple cider vinegar or white vinegar

• 2 tsp sugar

• Salt & pepper to taste

• 1 carrot, peeled and grated

• 2 green onions, thinly sliced (optional)

• ¼ cup finely chopped celery (optional)

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🍳 Instructions:

1. Cook the Macaroni:

   • Boil macaroni 2–3 minutes past al dente until very soft (but not mushy). This is key for that authentic texture.

   • Drain and immediately toss with vinegar while still warm. Let sit for 10–15 minutes to absorb.

2. Make the Dressing:

   • In a bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, milk, sugar, salt, and pepper until smooth.

3. Mix It Up:

   • Once pasta is cooled to room temp, mix with grated carrot, green onions, and celery (if using).

   • Pour in the dressing and toss gently to coat. Add a bit more mayo or milk if it seems dry.

4. Chill & Serve:

   • Cover and refrigerate at least 4 hours (overnight is best) to let the flavors meld.

   • Before serving, stir and adjust salt, pepper, or mayo if needed.

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✅ Tips for Authentic Flavor:

• Use Best Foods mayo (called Hellmann’s in some regions) for that classic island flavor.

• The pasta should be soft, not al dente — that’s how it soaks up the creamy dressing properly.

• No mustard or eggs — traditional Hawaiian mac salad keeps it simple and mayo-based.

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🍽️ Serve With:

• Hawaiian plate lunch (like kalua pork, BBQ chicken, or loco moco)

• Grilled meats or teriyaki

• Fried chicken or fish

Let me know if you’d like the full Hawaiian plate lunch recipe to go with it!