Craving a dish that's both incredibly delicious and surprisingly easy to make? Then look no further than this Ono Hawaiian BBQ Mac Salad! This isn't your average macaroni salad; it's a vibrant, flavorful explosion of sweet, savory, and tangy goodness that perfectly captures the spirit of the islands. Perfect for potlucks, picnics, or a simple yet satisfying weeknight dinner, this recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Get ready to transport your taste buds to paradise with every creamy, delicious bite!
Ingredients:
This Hawaiian BBQ Mac Salad recipe uses simple, readily available ingredients. You probably already have most of them in your pantry!
- 1 pound elbow macaroni
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
- 1/4 cup Hawaiian BBQ sauce (your favorite brand!)
- 1/4 cup finely chopped red onion
- 1/2 cup chopped celery
- 1/2 cup shredded carrots
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro (optional, but highly recommended!)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
This recipe is so easy, even beginner cooks can master it!
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Cook the macaroni: Cook the elbow macaroni according to package directions until al dente. Drain well and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process and prevent sticking. Set aside to cool completely. This is crucial for a properly chilled 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 everything: Add the cooled macaroni, red onion, celery, and carrots to the bowl with the dressing. Gently toss to ensure the macaroni is evenly coated. Be careful not to overmix, as this can break the macaroni.
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Season and chill: Season with salt and pepper to taste. Stir in the fresh cilantro (if using). Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and the salad to chill thoroughly. This step really elevates the taste!
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Serve and enjoy: Once chilled, your Ono Hawaiian BBQ Mac Salad is ready to be served! Enjoy this delicious dish as a side dish or a light meal.
Tips for the Best Hawaiian BBQ Mac Salad:
- Use high-quality ingredients: The better the ingredients, the better the taste! Look for good quality mayonnaise and a Hawaiian BBQ sauce that you really enjoy.
- Don't overcook the macaroni: Overcooked macaroni will become mushy and unpleasant. Cook it al dente for the best texture.
- Chill thoroughly: Chilling allows the flavors to develop and the salad to firm up, creating a more satisfying eating experience.
- Add some crunch: Toasted sesame seeds or chopped macadamia nuts would add a lovely crunch to this salad.
Variations:
- Spicy Mac Salad: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the dressing for a little kick.
- Pineapple Mac Salad: Dice up some fresh pineapple and add it to the salad for a tropical twist.
- Bacon Mac Salad: Crumble some cooked bacon on top for added flavor and texture.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This nutritional information is an estimate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 300-350
- Fat: Approximately 15-20g
- Protein: Approximately 5-7g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 35-40g
- Fiber: Approximately 2-3g
This Ono Hawaiian BBQ Mac Salad is a perfect example of how simple, homemade cooking can create truly delicious and satisfying meals. It's a fantastic recipe for easy recipes, healthy meals, and quick dinner ideas, making it a versatile addition to your culinary repertoire. Enjoy this taste of paradise!