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hawaiian macaroni salad

Authentic Hawaiian Macaroni Salad

This creamy, simple Hawaiian Macaroni Salad is the ultimate BBQ side dish! Made with elbow macaroni, shredded veggies, and a rich, tangy mayonnaise dressing.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 25 minutes
Servings 6

Ingredients
  

  • 8 oz elbow macaroni
  • 1 ΒΌ cups Hellmann's mayonnaise
  • 1 medium carrot finely shredded
  • 3 tbsp onion finely shredded
  • 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
  • 1 tsp granulated sugar
  • 2 tbsp milk
  • Salt and black pepper to taste

Instructions
 

  • Cook macaroni in salted water per package directions. Drain and rinse under cold water. Place in a large bowl.
  • Add shredded carrot, onion, and apple cider vinegar to the pasta. Toss, cover, and refrigerate for 15 minutes.
  • In a separate bowl, whisk mayonnaise, sugar, milk, salt, and pepper until smooth.
  • Pour dressing over the chilled pasta mixture. Stir until fully combined.
  • Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or ideally 3-4 hours/overnight.
  • Stir before serving. Serve cold.

Notes

  • Hellmann's/Best Foods mayo is recommended for authentic flavor and texture.
  • For a more traditional soft texture, cook the pasta 1-2 minutes past al dente.
  • The salad must chill to allow the flavors to develop and the dressing to thicken.