20 Minute Hawaiian Macaroni Salad

Hawaiian Macaroni Salad is a classic member of the Hawaiian “lunch plate trio.” Every family in Hawaii has their own recipe when it comes to this classic. I think you’ll love our easy to make version, guaranteed to please a 2 year old, or a 102 year old!

What Macaroni to use?

Use any elbow macaroni you have. Si loves to use her dry-storage canned macaroni for this recipe. We also love the shape and texture of  Barilla “elbows” which can be found in the blue box at most grocery stores. Barilla’s shape includes ridges and an extra “twist” to the curve of a regular elbow noodle.

What makes this Salad Unique?

The most basic Hawaiian Macaroni Salad consists of macaroni noodles, mayonnaise, salt and pepper. Done. We love our recipe which includes a bit of cider vinegar, adding just the right amount of acid to this side salad.

What Can I add to classic Hawaiian Macaroni Salad?

• Sugar or honey to “tame” the vinegar.
• Peas for color and freshness.
• Sweet onions or spring onions for added bite and crunch.
• Shredded cooked chicken if you’re wanting to make this salad more of a meal.
• When adding any extra ingredient, remember to do it sparingly because for any Hawaiian macaroni salad, the mayonnaise is the star of the show. 

Is there A Mayonnaise alternative?

Want to boost your protein while keeping the same creamy texture? Feel free to substitute ½ cup of plain Greek yogurt for ½ cup of the mayonnaise. Subbing out some of the mayonnaise will also lower calories and fat.

How to perfectly cook Macaroni?

Boiling pasta in salt water gives pasta added flavor. In this recipe, boil 2 cups of pasta in about 4 quarts of water with 2 teaspoons of salt.

For Hawaiian macaroni, some choose to overcook the macaroni, giving the salad an extra creamy-smooth texture. You decide! When cooking the macaroni longer, be sure to gently fold in the remaining ingredients to keep the pasta from breaking. 

For Hawaiian Macaroni Salad, rinse the macaroni while draining. Cold water stops the cooking process and also cools down the macaroni. For added creaminess, fold in the remaining ingredients while the pasta is still a bit warm.

What to serve with Hawaiian Macaroni Salad?

Enjoy serving any or all of the following recipes along with this creamy, classic salad. Oven Smoked Boston Butt with Homemade BBQ Sauce, Grilled Chicken and Peach Salad with Carmelized Barbecue Sauce, Apple and Cabbage Slaw. 

With just 20 minutes and 4 ingredients, your picnic, luau, or BBQ will be a “ono loa” (very delicious!) with our authentic Hawaiian Macaroni Salad.