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Hawaiian mac salad recipe featured

Authentic Hawaiian Mac Salad Recipe

This creamy, traditional Hawaiian mac salad is the perfect side dish for any island-inspired meal. With its signature ultra-creamy texture and simple ingredients, it's an authentic taste of Hawaii!
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 8
Course: Grain & Pasta Salads
Cuisine: Hawaiian
Calories: 563

Ingredients
  

  • 12 ounces elbow pasta
  • to taste Kosher salt and black pepper
  • 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
  • 2 carrots, shredded
  • 3 sticks celery, finely chopped
  • 1 medium sweet yellow onion, grated
  • 2 cups mayonnaise
  • 1/4 cup milk, any milk of choice

Equipment

  • Large pot
  • Colander
  • Large mixing bowl
  • Grater

Method
 

  1. Cook pasta in salted water until slightly softer than al dente. Drain, rinse under cold water, and transfer to a large bowl.
  2. Add apple cider vinegar to the warm pasta, toss, and let cool completely.
  3. In a separate bowl, whisk together mayonnaise and milk until smooth.
  4. Add the shredded carrots, chopped celery, and grated onion to the cooled pasta.
  5. Pour the mayo dressing over the pasta mixture and gently fold until everything is evenly coated.
  6. Season with kosher salt and black pepper to taste.
  7. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving, preferably overnight.

Notes

  • For authentic Hawaiian-style mac salad, the pasta should be cooked slightly past al dente.
  • This salad tastes even better the next day, so it's perfect to make ahead.
  • Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
  • If the salad becomes too thick after refrigeration, stir in a little milk to restore creaminess.