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Ono Hawaiian Macaroni Salad

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!
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 12
Course: Pasta, Side Dish
Cuisine: American
Calories: 450
Ingredients Method Notes

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

Method
 

  1. Cook the pasta: Boil macaroni 2 minutes longer than package directions until soft. Drain well.
  2. Add vinegar: Toss hot macaroni with 1 tablespoon vinegar in a large bowl. Let cool for 10 minutes.
  3. Mix veggies: Fold in grated carrots, diced celery, and sliced green onions gently.
  4. Make dressing: Whisk together mayonnaise, remaining vinegar, sugar, milk, salt and pepper until smooth.
  5. Combine: Pour dressing over pasta mixture and fold until everything is evenly coated and creamy.
  6. 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.