Are you craving a vibrant and flavorful side dish that's perfect for your next barbecue or potluck? Look no further! This Hawaiian BBQ macaroni salad recipe is a delightful fusion of sweet, savory, and tangy flavors, guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser. It's incredibly easy to make, using readily available ingredients, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights or relaxed weekend gatherings. Get ready to transport your taste buds to the sunny shores of Hawaii with this simple yet incredibly delicious recipe!
Ingredients:
This recipe yields approximately 6 servings.
- 1 pound elbow macaroni
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- ½ cup sugar
- ¼ cup apple cider vinegar
- ¼ cup Hawaiian BBQ sauce (your favorite brand)
- 1 small red onion, finely chopped
- 1 green bell pepper, finely chopped
- 1 cup shredded carrots
- ½ cup chopped fresh pineapple
- ¼ cup chopped green onions
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
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Cook the Macaroni: Cook the macaroni according to package directions until al dente. Drain well and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process. Set aside to cool completely. This step is crucial for preventing a soggy salad.
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Prepare the Dressing: In a large bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sugar, apple cider vinegar, and Hawaiian BBQ sauce until well combined and smooth. The sweetness of the sugar balances the tangy vinegar and smoky BBQ sauce beautifully.
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Combine Ingredients: Add the cooled macaroni, red onion, green bell pepper, carrots, pineapple, and green onions to the bowl with the dressing. Gently toss to ensure all the macaroni is evenly coated. Be careful not to overmix, as this can break the macaroni.
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Season and Chill: Stir in the salt and pepper. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and the salad to chill. This step allows the flavors to deepen and ensures a more enjoyable eating experience.
Tips for the Best Hawaiian BBQ Macaroni Salad:
- Use high-quality ingredients: The better the ingredients, the better the taste! Opt for fresh, ripe pineapple and a good-quality Hawaiian BBQ sauce.
- Don't overcook the macaroni: Overcooked macaroni will result in a mushy salad. Cook it until it's al dente (slightly firm to the bite).
- Adjust the sweetness: If you prefer a less sweet salad, reduce the amount of sugar. Conversely, add more if you have a sweeter tooth.
- Add some crunch: For added texture, consider adding some toasted macadamia nuts or crispy fried onions.
- Make it ahead: This salad tastes even better the next day, making it perfect for meal prepping.
Variations:
- Spicy kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of your favorite hot sauce for a spicy twist.
- Protein boost: Add cooked grilled chicken, ham, or shrimp for a more substantial meal.
- Tropical twist: Incorporate other tropical fruits like mango or papaya for an extra burst of flavor.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 350
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Cholesterol: 10mg
- Sodium: 300mg
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 15g
- Protein: 5g
This nutritional information is an estimate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used. Enjoy this delightful and easy-to-make Hawaiian BBQ macaroni salad! It's a perfect addition to any summer gathering or a simple yet satisfying weeknight meal. The sweet and savory flavors will surely leave you wanting more!