Craving a taste of paradise? Look no further than this ono Hawaiian mac salad recipe! This isn't your average macaroni salad; it's a vibrant, creamy, and incredibly flavorful dish that captures the essence of Hawaiian cuisine. Perfect for potlucks, barbecues, or a simple weeknight dinner, this easy recipe is sure to become a family favorite. Get ready to experience the joy of homemade cooking with this delicious dish!
Ingredients:
This recipe makes enough Hawaiian mac salad to feed 6-8 people. Feel free to double or halve it depending on your needs.
- 1 pound elbow macaroni
- 1 cup mayonnaise (best quality for optimal flavor)
- 1/2 cup finely diced celery
- 1/2 cup finely diced red onion
- 1/2 cup shredded carrots
- 1/4 cup sweet pickle relish
- 2 tablespoons white vinegar
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 cup chopped fresh parsley (optional, but adds brightness!)
Instructions:
Step 1: 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 ensure a cool salad. This is crucial for preventing a soggy salad.
Step 2: Prepare the Vegetables
While the macaroni is cooking, finely dice the celery and red onion. Shred the carrots. Having your vegetables prepped will make the assembly much faster.
Step 3: Combine Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine the cooked macaroni, mayonnaise, celery, red onion, carrots, pickle relish, vinegar, sugar, salt, and pepper. Gently toss everything together until the macaroni is evenly coated with the creamy dressing.
Step 4: Chill and Serve
Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. This chilling step is essential for a truly delicious mac salad; the flavors intensify as it sits. Serve chilled and enjoy!
Tips for the Best Hawaiian Mac Salad:
- Use high-quality mayonnaise: The mayonnaise is the star of the show, so don't skimp on the quality. A good mayonnaise will make a world of difference in the flavor and texture.
- Don't overcook the macaroni: Al dente macaroni holds its shape better and prevents a mushy salad.
- Taste and adjust seasonings: Adjust the salt, pepper, and sugar to your preference. Some people like a sweeter mac salad, while others prefer it more savory.
Variations:
- Add protein: Grilled chicken, ham, or shrimp are all delicious additions to this salad.
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little kick.
- Make it your own: Experiment with other vegetables, such as bell peppers or green onions.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
Calories: Approximately 350 Fat: Approximately 25g Protein: Approximately 5g Carbohydrates: Approximately 30g
This ono Hawaiian mac salad recipe is a simple yet incredibly flavorful dish that's perfect for any occasion. Its vibrant colors and fresh ingredients make it a standout among other quick dinner ideas and healthy meals. Give it a try and transport your taste buds to the beautiful islands of Hawaii!