Hawaiian BBQ Macaroni Salad
Hawaiian BBQ Macaroni Salad is a creamy, tangy, and classic side dish that perfectly complements grilled meats. Featuring al dente elbow macaroni coated in a smooth mayonnaise-based dressing with apple cider vinegar, sugar, and milk, this salad is brightened with grated carrots and finely diced onions. Loved for its nostalgic island flavors, easy preparation, and versatility, it’s ideal for barbecues, family gatherings, and make-ahead meals.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 8 minutes
- Total Time: 2 hours 18 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Appetizers
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: Hawaiian
- Diet: Gluten Free (if gluten-free pasta is used)
Ingredients
Scale
Pasta
- 2 cups elbow macaroni (cooked al dente)
Dressing
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
- 2 tablespoons milk
Vegetables
- 1/2 cup grated carrot
- 1/4 cup finely diced onion
Seasoning
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Cook the Macaroni: Boil elbow macaroni in salted water until just tender, about 7 to 8 minutes. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process and cool the pasta completely.
- Prepare the Dressing: In a large bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, granulated sugar, and milk until creamy yet slightly thin, to evenly coat the pasta.
- Combine Ingredients: Add the cooled macaroni, grated carrot, and finely diced onion to the dressing. Stir gently but thoroughly to coat every piece of pasta evenly.
- Season and Chill: Add salt and pepper to taste. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least two hours to allow the flavors to meld.
- Final Stir and Serve: Before serving, gently stir the salad again. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve chilled alongside your favorite BBQ dishes for an authentic Hawaiian treat.
Notes
- Cook pasta al dente to ensure macaroni holds shape and avoids mushiness.
- Chill the salad for several hours to enhance flavor melding and texture.
- Use good-quality mayonnaise for the best creamy dressing taste.
- Stir gently to keep macaroni intact and prevent mushy texture.
- Adjust the sugar in the dressing gradually to fit your taste preferences.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 250 kcal
- Sugar: 4 g
- Sodium: 220 mg
- Fat: 18 g
- Saturated Fat: 3 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 13 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 18 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 4 g
- Cholesterol: 10 mg
Keywords: Hawaiian macaroni salad, BBQ side dish, creamy macaroni salad, Hawaiian BBQ, island recipe, party salad, picnic salad
Find it online: https://mealsbylina.com/hawaiian-bbq-macaroni-salad/