Tired of the same old side dishes? Craving something vibrant, flavorful, and uniquely delicious? Then get ready to dive headfirst into the creamy, tangy, and utterly addictive world of authentic Hawaiian potato mac salad! This isn't your grandma's mac salad; this recipe captures the true spirit of Hawaiian cuisine, balancing sweet, savory, and a touch of tangy for a taste of paradise on your plate. It's a perfect addition to your next luau, barbecue, or even a simple weeknight dinner. This easy recipe is surprisingly quick to make, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights, too.
Ingredients:
- 2 pounds Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 1 pound elbow macaroni
- 1 cup mayonnaise (best quality you can find!)
- 1/2 cup sweet pickle relish
- 1/4 cup white vinegar
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
- 1 teaspoon yellow mustard
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
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Cook the potatoes and macaroni: Boil the potatoes in salted water until tender (about 15-20 minutes). Cook the macaroni according to package directions until al dente. Drain both thoroughly and set aside to cool completely. This step is crucial for a great texture; cold potatoes and pasta prevent a watery salad.
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Prepare the dressing: In a large bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, pickle relish, vinegar, sugar, onion, parsley, mustard, salt, and pepper until well combined. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed – you might want a touch more vinegar for extra tang or sugar for extra sweetness.
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Combine everything: Once the potatoes and macaroni are completely cool, gently add them to the bowl with the dressing. Fold everything together carefully to coat evenly. Avoid overmixing, as this can break up the potatoes.
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Chill and serve: Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or preferably overnight, to allow the flavors to meld. This chilling step is key for the best flavor and texture; the salad will thicken and the flavors will deepen. Serve chilled and enjoy!
Cooking Tips for the Best Hawaiian Potato Mac Salad:
- Potato perfection: Use Yukon Gold potatoes for their creamy texture and subtle sweetness. Russet potatoes can also work, but they might be a bit drier.
- Don't overcook the pasta: Al dente pasta is ideal; it holds its shape better in the salad.
- Quality ingredients matter: Using good quality mayonnaise significantly impacts the flavor of the salad.
- Taste as you go: Adjust the seasonings to your liking. Some people prefer a more tangy salad, while others prefer a sweeter one.
Variations:
- Add some crunch: Incorporate chopped celery, bell peppers, or even crispy bacon bits for added texture and flavor.
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a hint of heat.
- Make it vegan: Substitute the mayonnaise with a vegan alternative. Ensure it's a creamy one for the best texture.
- Ham it up: Add diced cooked ham for a heartier salad.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 350
- Fat: 20g
- Protein: 5g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 2g
This authentic Hawaiian potato mac salad recipe is a delicious and easy-to-make side dish that’s perfect for any occasion. It's a crowd-pleaser guaranteed to impress your guests, and its simple ingredients and straightforward instructions make it accessible to cooks of all levels. Enjoy the taste of the islands with this simple yet flavorful recipe! Mahalo!