This Hawaiian Mac Salad is a creamy, tasty treat that’s perfect for any picnic or barbecue! With tender macaroni, crunchy carrots, and sweet peas, it’s super colorful and fun.
If you want to wow your friends, just whip this up and let them think you’re a culinary genius. Honestly, it’s so easy, you might end up making it once a week! 😂
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Elbow Macaroni: This pasta is a classic choice for mac salad. If you’re looking for a twist, shell pasta or rotini works well too! They both hold dressings nicely.
Mayonnaise: Standard mayonnaise is a must for creaminess. If you prefer a lighter option, Greek yogurt is a great substitute. It adds some tang and cuts back on calories without losing texture.
Sour Cream: This adds richness to the dish. You can swap it with plain yogurt for a tangy flavor or even cream cheese for a thicker salad.
Apple Cider Vinegar: This adds a nice acidity. White vinegar can be used instead, but I enjoy the fruity notes of apple cider. Lemon juice is also a refreshing alternative!
Carrots: Grated carrots add color and sweetness. You could use peas or diced bell peppers for more crunch and a pop of color if carrots aren’t on hand.
Sweet Pickle Relish: It gives a touch of sweetness. If you want a tangier finish, try dill pickle relish. Chopped cornichons also work if you prefer a firmer crunch.
How Do I Cook Elbow Macaroni Perfectly?
Cooking elbow macaroni sounds simple, but getting it just right is key! Here’s how to ensure your pasta is perfect:
- Use a large pot and bring salted water to a boil. This helps flavor the pasta as it cooks.
- Add the elbow macaroni and stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Cook according to package instructions, usually 7-9 minutes, until it’s al dente (firm to the bite).
- Drain the pasta, then rinse it under cold water to stop the cooking and cool it down for the salad.
Delicious Food Truck Hawaiian Mac Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 cups elbow macaroni
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- ½ cup sour cream
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1 cup carrots, grated
- ½ cup green onions, sliced
- ½ cup diced celery
- ¼ cup diced red bell pepper
- ¼ cup sweet pickle relish
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare, plus an hour to chill in the fridge. You’ll cook the pasta, mix everything together, and then let it sit so all the flavors blend beautifully. Perfect for a quick side dish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Macaroni:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once boiling, add in the elbow macaroni. Cook according to the package instructions until the pasta is al dente, which usually takes about 7-8 minutes. Once cooked, drain the macaroni and rinse it under cold water to cool it down quickly.
2. Prepare the Dressing:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the mayonnaise, sour cream, apple cider vinegar, and sugar. Mix everything together until it’s smooth and well combined. This creamy dressing will bring together all the flavors of your salad!
3. Add the Veggies:
Now, toss in the grated carrots, sliced green onions, diced celery, red bell pepper, and sweet pickle relish into the dressing. Give it a good stir to combine all the veggies with the dressing until everything is coated nicely.
4. Combine with the Macaroni:
Gently fold the cooled macaroni into the bowl with the dressing and veggies. Be careful not to break the pasta; you want it to stay intact. Mix it all together until every piece of pasta is coated with that delicious dressing.
5. Season It Right:
Now it’s time to sprinkle in salt and pepper to taste. Start with a little bit, and adjust according to your preference. Remember, you can always add more if needed!
6. Chill and Serve:
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate your mac salad for at least 1 hour. This chilling time allows all the flavors to meld together and makes for a refreshingly cool dish. Once ready, serve it chilled as a delicious side dish! Enjoy your Hawaiian mac salad!
Can I Use Different Types of Pasta?
Absolutely! While elbow macaroni is traditional, you can substitute it with any small pasta like rotini, corkscrew, or even gluten-free pasta if you need a gluten-free option. Just make sure to cook it until al dente for the best texture.
How Long Can I Store Leftover Hawaiian Mac Salad?
You can store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just give it a good stir before serving again as the ingredients may settle or separate during storage.
Can I Make This Salad Vegan?
Yes! You can make a vegan version by using vegan mayonnaise and plant-based sour cream. Additionally, opt for agave syrup or maple syrup instead of sugar for a fully vegan-friendly dish.
What Can I Serve with Hawaiian Mac Salad?
This mac salad pairs wonderfully with grilled meats, fish, or as part of a picnic spread. It also makes a great side for barbecues, picnics, or potlucks. Try serving it alongside teriyaki chicken or burgers for a deliciously balanced meal!
