This Hawaiian Mac Salad is a tasty twist on classic pasta salad! It’s creamy, full of fun flavors, and packed with macaroni, veggies, and a little sweetness that makes it special.
Whenever I make this salad, it’s like a party on a plate! Perfect for backyard BBQs or just to enjoy with friends. Don’t be surprised if everyone goes for seconds! 🎉
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Elbow Macaroni: This classic shape holds dressing well and is a must for authentic macaroni salad. If you’re looking for a twist, try using rotini or small shells instead. They both work great and add a fun texture!
Mayonnaise: Creamy mayo is essential for a rich texture. If you’re looking for a lighter option, consider swapping half with Greek yogurt. It adds creaminess while boosting protein. Personally, I love adding a little extra zip with a flavored mayonnaise!
Sour Cream: This adds tartness and another layer of creaminess. You can substitute it with more Greek yogurt or even low-fat sour cream if you’re watching calories. For a dairy-free version, use a plant-based sour cream.
Carrots and Celery: They bring freshness and crunch to the salad. You can switch up the veggies with peas or bell peppers if you prefer. I like adding some chopped bell peppers for extra color and sweetness!
Diced Ham: This ingredient is optional but adds a wonderful flavor. For a vegetarian version, skip the ham or replace it with diced avocado or chickpeas for added protein and heartiness.
How Do I Ensure My Macaroni is Perfectly Cooked?
Cooking the elbow macaroni just right is key. Follow these simple steps to get it spot on!
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil before adding the macaroni.
- Cook according to package instructions, but check 1-2 minutes early. You want it al dente, which means it should still have a little bite when you bite into it.
- Once done, drain and rinse quickly under cold water. This stops the cooking and cools it down for the salad!
Getting the right cook on your pasta really makes a difference in salad texture. Follow these tips, and your salad will be fantastic!
How to Make Food Truck Hawaiian Mac Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salad:
- 2 cups elbow macaroni
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup sour cream
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1 cup carrots, grated
- 1/2 cup celery, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup green onions, sliced
- 1/2 cup cooked ham, diced (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This tasty Hawaiian Mac Salad takes about 15 minutes to prepare and at least 1 hour to chill in the refrigerator. So, you can whip it up quickly and let it sit while you prepare the rest of your meal or set up for a gathering!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Macaroni:
Start by cooking the elbow macaroni according to the package instructions until it’s al dente (not soft). Once done, drain the macaroni and rinse it under cold water. This will cool the pasta down and stop the cooking process.
2. Make the Dressing:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the mayonnaise, sour cream, apple cider vinegar, and sugar. Use a whisk or spatula to mix everything together until it’s well blended and smooth.
3. Add the Veggies and Ham:
Now, add in the grated carrots, chopped celery, sliced green onions, and the optional diced ham if you’re using it. Give it a good stir to combine all the ingredients with the dressing.
4. Combine with Macaroni:
Gently add the cooled macaroni to your mixing bowl. Carefully fold everything together using a spatula until the pasta is fully coated in the creamy dressing. Make sure not to break the pasta pieces!
5. Season and Chill:
Now, season your salad with salt and pepper to taste. It’s a good idea to start with a little and add more if needed. Once seasoned, cover the bowl and pop it in the fridge for at least 1 hour. This chilling time helps the flavors blend together beautifully!
6. Serve and Enjoy:
After the salad has chilled, it’s ready to serve! Enjoy it cold as a delicious side dish at your next gathering or BBQ, just like you’d find at your favorite Hawaiian food truck. So refreshing and tasty!
Can I Substitute the Mayonnaise?
Absolutely! If you’re looking for a lighter option or a different flavor, you can use Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise. You can also mix half yogurt and half mayonnaise for a creamier but healthier dressing.
Can I Make This Salad Ahead of Time?
Yes, this Hawaiian Mac Salad is great for making ahead of time! You can prepare it up to two days in advance. Just keep it covered in the fridge; the flavors will improve as they meld together!
How to Store Leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. If the salad gets a bit dry, you can stir in a little more mayonnaise or yogurt to refresh it before serving.
What Other Add-Ins Can I Use?
Feel free to get creative! You can add diced pineapple for a tropical twist, peas for extra color and sweetness, or bell peppers for crunch. Just remember to adjust the seasoning as needed!
