Ono Hawaiian Macaroni Salad
This creamy, authentic ono Hawaiian macaroni salad brings island flavors to your table in just minutes. With perfectly soft pasta and a tangy-sweet dressing, this plate lunch staple will transport taste buds straight to paradise!
Ingredients
For the Salad:
- 1 pound elbow macaroni
- 1/2 cup carrots finely grated
- 1/4 cup celery finely diced
- 3 green onions thinly sliced
For the Dressing:
- 2 1/2 cups mayonnaise
- 3 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 2 teaspoons sugar
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Cook the pasta: Boil macaroni 2 minutes longer than package directions until soft. Drain well.
- Add vinegar: Toss hot macaroni with 1 tablespoon vinegar in a large bowl. Let cool for 10 minutes.
- Mix veggies: Fold in grated carrots, diced celery, and sliced green onions gently.
- Make dressing: Whisk together mayonnaise, remaining vinegar, sugar, milk, salt and pepper until smooth.
- Combine: Pour dressing over pasta mixture and fold until everything is evenly coated and creamy.
- Chill: Cover and refrigerate at least 1 hour before serving. Overnight is even better!
Notes
- Make ahead: Tastes even better after 24 hours in the fridge as flavors meld together beautifully.
- Consistency tip: If salad seems dry after chilling, stir in a tablespoon or two of milk to restore creaminess.
- Authentic texture: Traditional Hawaiian mac salad uses slightly overcooked pasta – this is essential for proper flavor absorption!
- Serving suggestion: Pairs perfectly with kalua pork and rice for an authentic Hawaiian plate lunch experience.