Authentic Hawaiian Macaroni Salad Recipe

Name: Authentic Hawaiian Macaroni Salad
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 4 h
Cuisine: Hawaiian
Ingredients: 1 pound macaroni; 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar; 2 carrots, shredded; ¼ cup shredded onion (optional); 2 ½ cups mayonnaise (Best Foods or Hellman’s mayonnaise; no substitutes!); ¼ cup milk; 2 teaspoons sugar; Kosher salt, to taste; Ground black pepper, to taste

Posted on May 13, 2026

Authentic Hawaiian Macaroni Salad with peas, carrots, and creamy dressing in a serving bowl

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in this article, we will explore a delicious and classic dish that embodies the spirit of Hawaiian cuisine. Authentic Hawaiian Macaroni Salad is a creamy, comforting side that many enjoy during barbecues and potlucks. With its simple ingredients and easy preparation, this dish captures the heart of family gatherings and luaus.

why make this recipe

Making Authentic Hawaiian Macaroni Salad is a great way to bring a taste of the islands to your table. This recipe is not only easy to prepare, but it is also a crowd-pleaser. The creamy texture and subtle sweetness make it a perfect complement to grilled meats or a stand-alone dish at gatherings. Additionally, it’s a great way to use pantry staples, making it accessible for anyone to whip up.

Table of Contents

how to make Authentic Hawaiian Macaroni Salad

Ingredients:

1 pound macaroni
2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
2 carrots, shredded
¼ cup shredded onion (optional)
2 ½ cups Mayonnaise (Best Foods or Hellman’s mayonnaise; no substitutes!)
¼ cup milk
2 teaspoons sugar
Kosher salt, to taste
Ground black pepper, to taste

Directions:

Cook macaroni according to package directions. Rinse under cold water until completely cool. Drain well and place in a large bowl.
Sprinkle on vinegar. Add carrots and onion. Toss together until well combined. Refrigerate for 15 minutes, or until cooled.
In a separate, small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, milk, and sugar. Fold the mayo mixture into the macaroni until all the noodles are evenly coated. Add salt and pepper to taste.
Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours (best if overnight).
Gently stir before serving; add a little more milk if needed, no more than a tablespoon or two.

how to serve Authentic Hawaiian Macaroni Salad

When ready to serve, dish out portions of the macaroni salad onto individual plates or a serving bowl. It pairs beautifully with grilled meats, seafood, or fried chicken. For a festive touch, garnish with chopped green onions or a sprinkle of paprika.

how to store Authentic Hawaiian Macaroni Salad

To store leftovers, place the macaroni salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It can last for up to 3 days. If the salad appears dry upon reheating, you can add a little milk to restore its creaminess.

tips to make Authentic Hawaiian Macaroni Salad

Make this salad a day ahead for the best flavor. The longer it sits, the more the flavors meld together.
Adjust the sweetness by adding a bit more or less sugar based on your preference.
If you prefer a bit of crunch, consider adding celery or bell peppers to the salad.

variation

You can customize the salad by adding ingredients such as diced ham, tuna, or peas for added flavor and texture. Each variation brings a unique touch to the classic recipe.

This creamy Authentic Hawaiian Macaroni Salad delivers classic island-style flavor with tender pasta and rich dressing, making it the perfect side dish for BBQs, luaus, and family gatherings.

For more comforting side dishes, enjoy this creamy Macaroni Salad with Deviled Eggs or try this easy Macaroni Salad for a Crowd. You can also discover this lighter Greek Yogurt Macaroni Salad for another delicious variation.

FAQs: Authentic Hawaiian Macaroni Salad

1. Can I use a different type of mayonnaise?
It’s best to stick to Best Foods or Hellman’s mayonnaise for an authentic taste. Other brands may not give the same flavor.

2. Is the onion necessary?
The onion adds flavor, but it is optional. If you don’t like onion, feel free to leave it out.

3. Can I freeze macaroni salad?
It is not recommended to freeze macaroni salad as the texture of the mayonnaise may change after thawing. It is best enjoyed fresh or within a few days of preparation.