Hawaiian Macaroni Salad is a simple and basic side dish that's anything but boring. Just a few ingredients and you have a creamy simple pasta side dish for any meal.
It doesn't matter if you're grilling or slow cooking and whether you're feeding just the family or a whole crew, everyone needs a simple, make-ahead and go-to side dish that will always wow. This may seem so basic, but sometimes the simplest things are really the best! Especially when you can make a side like this that requires very little effort and yet really delivers on creaminess, tang and deliciousness. Hawaiian Macaroni Salad is the perfect side for you to make this weekend!
Start by making up a batch of elbow noodles and then letting them cool slightly after you drain them. Or if you like to cut back on steps, you can always use these noodles that cook right up in a skillet and skip the draining step.
While you could get fancy with this salad, I like to keep it basic with just a little carrot and celery for the veggies. Make it easy by running your carrot over a grater to get a nice fine texture and then simple finely dice up the celery.
My trick for some sweetness in the dressing is to forget the sugar or honey and go straight for a little pineapple juice. I know this isn't the traditional way to make this dish, but there are plenty of recipes out there for that and I wanted to show you how I really make it instead. I love the extra little zip of flavor you get from it and just the right amount of sweetness.
Finish it all off with a healthy scoop of mayo and chill until ready to serve. The perfect make ahead side for your weekend BBQ, potluck or family dinner!
Hawaiian Macaroni Salad
Ingredients
- 12 oz elbow noodles
- ½ cup grated carrot
- 1 celery rib, finely diced
- 1 cup mayo
- 3 tablespoons pineapple juice
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- salt and pepper as desired
Instructions
- Cook noodles according to package directions and drain and cool
- Add grated carrot and diced celery to noodles
- Whisk together mayo, pineapple juice and vinegar
- Pour over noodles and toss until combined
- Add salt and pepper to taste if desired
- Chill until ready to serve
Notes
Nutrition
What goes perfectly with this dish?
The Best Slow Cooker Pulled Pork
Or maybe this delicious Slow Cooker Memphis Rub Brisket
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