If you’ve ever wandered past a bustling Hawaiian food truck, chances are the aroma of creamy macaroni salad caught your attention. Hawaiian Mac Salad is a signature side in local plate lunches, beloved for its smooth, slightly sweet flavor and satisfying texture. Perfect alongside grilled meats, seafood, or even on its own, this tropical-inspired salad is easy to make at home.
Ingredients (6–8 Servings)
- 2 cups elbow macaroni
- ½ cup mayonnaise (Japanese mayo like Kewpie for authentic flavor)
- ¼ cup milk
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar or white vinegar
- 1 tablespoon sugar (optional, for subtle sweetness)
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 small carrot, finely grated
- 1 small celery stalk, finely chopped
- ¼ small onion, finely diced
- ¼ cup finely diced pineapple (optional, for a tropical twist)
Step-by-Step Method
Step 1: Cook the Macaroni
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook until al dente — firm to the bite, not mushy. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop cooking and cool the pasta. Drain thoroughly.
Step 2: Make the Dressing
In a medium bowl, whisk together:
- Mayonnaise
- Milk
- Vinegar
- Sugar
- Salt
- Black pepper
Taste and adjust seasoning. The dressing should be creamy, slightly tangy, with a hint of sweetness.
Step 3: Prep the Vegetables
While the pasta cools, finely chop the carrot, celery, and onion. Dice the pineapple if using. These ingredients add fresh crunch and a tropical pop to the creamy salad.
Step 4: Combine Pasta and Dressing
Place the cooled macaroni in a large bowl. Pour the dressing over the pasta and gently fold to coat each piece evenly. Be careful not to break the macaroni.
Step 5: Add Vegetables and Pineapple
Fold in the chopped vegetables and pineapple until well distributed. Each bite should have a balance of creamy pasta and crisp, fresh veggies.
Step 6: Chill and Serve
Cover the salad and refrigerate for 1–2 hours. Chilling allows the flavors to meld and ensures the classic creamy texture. Stir gently before serving and adjust seasoning if needed.
Tips for Perfect Hawaiian Mac Salad
- Use Japanese mayo for authentic creaminess and subtle sweetness.
- Avoid overcooking macaroni — firm pasta keeps the salad from becoming mushy.
- Customize add-ins — diced bell peppers, shredded carrots, or ham are popular variations.
- Chill properly — serving too soon can result in a runny texture.
Serving Suggestions
- As a side for plate lunches with grilled chicken, kalua pork, or teriyaki beef
- At summer barbecues or beach picnics
- For potlucks and gatherings, where its mild sweetness makes it universally loved
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
The Food Truck Hawaiian Mac Salad is more than just pasta; it’s a taste of the islands in every bite. Creamy, tangy, and lightly sweet, it pairs perfectly with hearty mains or stands alone as a tropical snack. Easy to make and universally loved, it’s a dish that will quickly become a favorite at your table.
