This Hawaiian Mac Salad is a creamy and tasty dish that’s perfect for any gathering. With elbow macaroni, sweet carrots, and a rich mayonnaise dressing, it’s a crowd-pleaser!
I love how colorful it looks on the table, plus it’s super easy to prepare. You can whip this up in no time and enjoy that island vibe without leaving your kitchen! 🏖️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Elbow Macaroni: This is the classic pasta choice for mac salad. If you want something different, try small shells or rotini. Just pick a pasta that holds onto the dressing well!
Mayonnaise: Full-fat mayo creates that rich creaminess. For lighter versions, use Greek yogurt or low-fat mayo. For a tangy twist, try a mix of mayo and sour cream!
Carrots: Shredded carrots add a nice sweetness and color. You could use peas or even bell peppers as substitutes if that’s what you have on hand. I love the crunch of bell peppers in this dish!
Celery: This adds freshness and crunch. If you’re not a celery fan, try diced cucumber for a similar crunch without the strong flavor.
Hard-Boiled Eggs: These add richness but are optional. You can skip them or use diced pickles for a tangy bite instead.
What’s the Best Way to Ensure Perfectly Cooked Macaroni?
Cooking macaroni perfectly is key to a great salad. Here’s how to get it just right:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil before adding the macaroni. This helps season the pasta.
- Cook until al dente—usually about 1-2 minutes less than the package instructions. You want a bit of bite!
- Drain and rinse the pasta right away to cool it down and stop the cooking process. This prevents it from getting mushy.
- Let it drain well to avoid extra water diluting your dressing.
With these tips, you’ll have perfect macaroni that mixes beautifully with the creamy dressing!
How to Make Easy Food Truck Style Hawaiian Mac Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- For the Salad:
- 2 cups elbow macaroni
- 1 cup shredded carrots
- 1/2 cup finely chopped celery
- 2 hard-boiled eggs, chopped (optional)
- 1/4 cup grated onion or finely minced onion (optional)
- For the Dressing:
- 1 1/2 cups mayonnaise (preferably full fat)
- 1/3 cup milk (adjust to achieve desired creaminess)
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Hawaiian Mac Salad will take about 30 minutes to prepare. After cooking the pasta and mixing everything together, let it chill in the fridge for at least 1 hour. This waiting time allows all those tasty flavors to blend beautifully!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Macaroni:
Start by boiling water in a large pot and adding a pinch of salt. Once it’s boiling, add the elbow macaroni. Cook according to the package instructions until it is just tender (al dente). Once done, drain the macaroni and rinse it under cold water to stop the cooking process. Make sure to drain it well!
2. Prepare the Dressing:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the mayonnaise, milk, apple cider vinegar, sugar, salt, and black pepper. Whisk everything together until it’s smooth and creamy. This dressing is what makes the salad so delicious!
3. Combine the Salad Ingredients:
To the bowl with the dressing, add the cooled macaroni, shredded carrots, chopped celery, hard-boiled eggs (if you’re using them), and onion (if desired). Gently toss everything together until all the ingredients are well-coated with the dressing.
4. Adjust the Seasoning:
Give the salad a taste! If you feel it needs a little more zing, add a bit more salt or pepper. If you want it sweeter, add a bit more sugar. Feel free to adjust to your personal taste!
5. Chill the Salad:
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and place it in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour. This chilling time will enhance the flavors.
6. Final Touches:
When you’re ready to serve, give the salad a gentle stir. If it looks a bit thick, add a splash of milk to loosen it up. It should be creamy and delightful!
7. Serve and Enjoy!
Serve the Hawaiian Mac Salad cold as a side dish at barbecues, potlucks, or picnics, or enjoy it as a delicious main dish on its own. It’s creamy, flavorful, and guarantees smiles all around!
This recipe captures the classic food truck style with its vibrant colors and delicious flavors. Enjoy your homemade Hawaiian Mac Salad!
FAQ for Easy Food Truck Style Hawaiian Mac Salad
Can I Use Gluten-Free Pasta for This Recipe?
Absolutely! You can substitute elbow macaroni with your favorite gluten-free pasta. Just be sure to follow the cooking instructions on the packaging, as gluten-free pasta may require different cooking times.
What Can I Substitute for Mayonnaise?
If you want a lighter version, try using Greek yogurt or a vegan mayo. You can also mix half mayo and half sour cream for a tangy twist. Adjust the amount of milk as needed to reach your preferred creaminess.
How Long Will Leftovers Last in the Fridge?
Leftover Hawaiian Mac Salad can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for 3 to 5 days. Just give it a good stir before serving again, and add a splash of milk if it’s too thick!
Can I Add Other Ingredients?
Definitely! Feel free to add diced bell peppers, peas, or chopped pickles for additional flavor and crunch. This salad is very versatile, so personalize it to your taste!
