That first bite of a truly perfect Creamy Tangy Hawaiian Mac Salad instantly transports me back to my grandmother’s kitchen, where aloha spirit infused every dish. As a busy mom of three, I cherish recipes that bring comfort and joy without fuss, and this particular Creamy Tangy Hawaiian Mac Salad recipe is a cherished family tradition. It’s more than just a side dish; it’s a bowl full of love, perfect for potlucks, barbecues, or simply brightening a weeknight meal.
This isn’t just any mac salad; it’s the Creamy Tangy Hawaiian Mac Salad that strikes that irresistible balance of creamy texture and bright, zesty flavor. We always make a big batch because this Creamy Tangy Hawaiian Mac Salad disappears faster than you can say “mahalo!” Get ready to make your own memories with this incredible Creamy Tangy Hawaiian.
Table of Contents
Creamy Tangy Hawaiian Mac Salad
- Total Time: 30 mins
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Diet: N/A
Description
This Creamy Tangy Hawaiian Mac Salad is a cherished family tradition, offering an irresistible balance of creamy texture and bright, zesty flavor. Perfect for potlucks, barbecues, or weeknight meals, it's simple to prepare and a genuine crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients
1 pound Elbow Macaroni
1 ½ cups Mayonnaise (full-fat)
¼ cup Milk (whole or 2%)
2 tablespoons Apple Cider Vinegar
1 tablespoon Granulated Sugar
¼ cup Yellow Onion (finely grated)
½ cup Carrots (finely grated)
½ cup Celery (finely diced)
½ teaspoon Salt
¼ teaspoon Black Pepper
Instructions
- Boil the elbow macaroni according to package directions until al dente. Drain thoroughly and rinse with cold water to stop cooking and cool the pasta
- In a large bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, milk, apple cider vinegar, granulated sugar, salt, and black pepper until smooth
- Add the cooled macaroni, grated yellow onion, grated carrots, and diced celery to the dressing
- Gently fold all ingredients together until the macaroni and vegetables are evenly coated with the creamy dressing
- Cover the bowl tightly and refrigerate your Creamy Tangy Hawaiian Mac Salad for at least 2 hours, or preferably overnight. This chilling time allows the flavors to meld beautifully
- Give the Creamy Tangy Hawaiian Mac Salad a final stir before serving
Notes
Never overcook macaroni; aim for al dente. Rinsing pasta with cold water prevents stickiness and aids dressing absorption.
Grate onion and carrots very finely for a smooth texture.
Chilling time is crucial for flavor development.
Taste and adjust seasonings before serving.
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Flavors deepen overnight.
This dish does not freeze well due to the mayonnaise base.
If mac salad seems dry, stir in a tablespoon or two of milk or mayonnaise to revive creaminess.
For a lighter version, use light mayonnaise. Experiment with different vinegars (e.g., rice vinegar) or add a touch of Dijon mustard.
Add other finely diced vegetables like bell peppers or green onions for color and crunch.
For extra protein, fold in canned tuna or cooked ham.
To make healthier, reduce mayonnaise or use a lighter version, and add more finely diced vegetables.
This recipe is not gluten-free with traditional macaroni, but can be adapted using gluten-free elbow pasta.
- Prep Time: 20 mins
- Cook Time: 10 mins
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Mixing
- Cuisine: Hawaiian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 380 kcal
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 350mg
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: N/A
- Trans Fat: N/A
- Carbohydrates: 29g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
Keywords: Hawaiian Mac Salad, Creamy Tangy, Macaroni Salad, Side Dish, Potluck, BBQ
WHY YOU’LL LOVE THIS RECIPE
You will absolutely adore this Creamy Tangy Hawaiian Mac Salad! First, it’s incredibly simple to prepare, making it a lifesaver for busy schedules. Secondly, this Creamy Tangy offers a delightful contrast of textures and flavors – perfectly cooked macaroni, crisp vegetables, and that signature creamy, tangy dressing.
It’s a genuine crowd-pleaser, ideal for any gathering. Plus, making your own Creamy Tangy Hawaiian Mac Salad means you control the ingredients, ensuring a wholesome and nourishing dish for your family. Everyone asks for the recipe for this Salad.
INGREDIENTS YOU’LL NEED
Gathering your ingredients for this Creamy Tangy Hawaiian Mac Salad is easy! You likely have most items already.
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Elbow Macaroni | 1 pound |
| Mayonnaise (full-fat) | 1 ½ cups |
| Milk (whole or 2%) | ¼ cup |
| Apple Cider Vinegar | 2 tablespoons |
| Granulated Sugar | 1 tablespoon |
| Yellow Onion (finely grated) | ¼ cup |
| Carrots (finely grated) | ½ cup |
| Celery (finely diced) | ½ cup |
| Salt | ½ teaspoon, or to taste |
| Black Pepper | ¼ teaspoon, or to taste |
SUBSTITUTIONS & VARIATIONS
Feel free to customize your Creamy Tangy Hawaiian Mac Salad! For a slightly lighter version, use light mayonnaise, though the full-fat option provides the best creamy texture. Experiment with different vinegars; rice vinegar adds a subtle sweetness.
Add a touch of Dijon mustard for extra zing. Introduce other finely diced vegetables like bell peppers or green onions for more color and crunch. Some families enjoy a bit of canned tuna or cooked ham folded into their Salad for extra protein. Make this Creamy Tangy Hawaiian Mac Salad truly your own!
While you’re experimenting with different ways to add zing to your mac salad, consider how various creamy sauces can elevate a dish. For another fantastic sauce that brings a delightful kick, explore our recipe for Taco Bell Creamy Jalapeno Sauce.
STEP-BY-STEP INSTRUCTIONS
Making this Creamy Tangy Hawaiian Mac Salad is straightforward. You will have a delicious side dish in no time.
1. Cook the macaroni: Boil the elbow macaroni according to package directions until al dente. Drain thoroughly and rinse with cold water to stop cooking and cool the pasta. This is crucial for a great Creamy Tangy Hawaiian Mac Salad.
2. Prepare the dressing: In a large bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, milk, apple cider vinegar, granulated sugar, salt, and black pepper until smooth. The dressing for your Creamy Tangy Hawaiian Mac Salad comes together quickly.
3. Combine ingredients: Add the cooled macaroni, grated yellow onion, grated carrots, and diced celery to the dressing.
4. Mix well: Gently fold all ingredients together until the macaroni and vegetables are evenly coated with the creamy dressing. Ensure every bit of the Creamy Tangy Hawaiian Mac Salad is coated.
5. Chill: Cover the bowl tightly and refrigerate your Creamy Tangy Hawaiian Mac Salad for at least 2 hours, or preferably overnight. This chilling time allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
6. Serve: Give the Creamy Tangy Hawaiian Mac Salad a final stir before serving.
Note: This video is for demonstration purposes and may use a slightly different method.
PRO TIPS FOR SUCCESS
Just as mastering this mac salad requires attention to detail, creating a balanced and flavorful main course also benefits from expert tips. If you’re looking for another perfectly composed meal featuring a delicious creamy element, discover our Grilled Chicken & Broccoli Bowls with Creamy Garlic Sauce.
STORAGE & REHEATING TIPS
Store your Creamy Tangy Hawaiian Mac Salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. This Creamy Tangy Hawaiian Mac Salad actually tastes better the next day as the flavors deepen. This dish does not freeze well due to the mayonnaise base.
If the mac salad seems a little dry after sitting, simply stir in a tablespoon or two of milk or mayonnaise to revive its creamy texture. You won’t need to reheat this Creamy Tangy Hawaiian Mac Salad; it’s always served cold.
WHAT TO SERVE WITH THIS RECIPE
This versatile mac salad proves that creamy dishes can be a perfect accompaniment to almost any meal. For a different take on a creamy, satisfying dish that’s ideal for breakfast or brunch, consider making Creamy Cottage Cheese Scrambled Eggs.
FAQS
Can I make Creamy Tangy Hawaiian Mac Salad ahead of time?
Absolutely! Making this Creamy Tangy Hawaiian Mac Salad a day ahead allows the flavors to meld beautifully, often making it taste even better.
What kind of macaroni is best for this Creamy Tangy Hawaiian Mac Salad?
Classic elbow macaroni is ideal. Its small, curved shape holds the creamy dressing perfectly for this Creamy Tangy Hawaiian Mac Salad.
Is Creamy Tangy Hawaiian Mac Salad gluten-free?
No, traditional elbow macaroni contains gluten. However, you can easily use your favorite gluten-free elbow pasta to adapt this Creamy Tangy Hawaiian Mac Salad.
How can I make Creamy Tangy Hawaiian Mac Salad healthier?
You can reduce the mayonnaise slightly, or use a lighter version. Add more finely diced vegetables like bell peppers or cucumbers to boost nutrients in your Creamy Tangy Hawaiian Mac Salad.
Creamy Tangy Hawaiian Mac Salad is a beloved staple in Hawaiian cuisine, famously served as an essential component of the traditional plate lunch. This simple yet flavorful side dish blends tender elbow macaroni with a rich, tangy mayonnaise-based dressing and often includes finely grated vegetables for added texture.
NUTRITION INFORMATION (PER SERVING)
(Estimates based on 8 servings)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 380 kcal |
| Total Fat | 28g |
| Saturated Fat | 4g |
| Cholesterol | 15mg |
| Sodium | 350mg |
| Total Carbohydrates | 29g |
| Dietary Fiber | 2g |
| Total Sugars | 5g |
| Protein | 6g |