Food Truck Hawaiian Mac Salad
Dive into the vibrant and cheerful spirit of a Hawaiian food truck right in your kitchen with this luscious Hawaiian Mac Salad! It’s the perfect dish to transport your taste buds to the sunny shores of the islands, combining the creamy textures and tangy flavors that are signature to this beloved side dish.
Whether you’re planning a backyard barbecue or a casual family gathering, this salad promises to be a hit, offering a delightful twist to your traditional macaroni salad.
This recipe captures the essence of simplicity and flavor, channeling the laid-back vibe of a Hawaiian luau. The dressing, rich and smooth with a hint of sweetness from the onion and sugar, perfectly complements the tender macaroni and crunchy vegetables.
Every bite of this salad is like a mini celebration, making it a must-have at any festivity or a simple family dinner. Let’s get started and bring a taste of Hawaii to your table!
- Preparation Time: 40 minutes + chilling
- Servings: 8
Ingredients:
For the Dressing:
- 2 cups half and half
- 2 cups mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup yellow onion, finely grated
- 2 teaspoons granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
For the Salad:
- 1 lb dried elbow macaroni
- 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
- 2 carrots, finely grated
- 1/4 cup celery, finely diced
Instructions:
- Make the Dressing:
In a medium bowl, combine the half and half, mayonnaise, grated onion, sugar, salt, and pepper. Whisk until smooth and well blended. Chill the dressing in the refrigerator until ready to use. - Cook the Macaroni:
Fill a large pot with water, add a pinch of salt, and bring to a boil. Add the macaroni and cook according to the package instructions, but add an extra 5 minutes to ensure the pasta is slightly overcooked—this helps it absorb more dressing later. Drain the macaroni and return it to the pot. - Add Vinegar to Pasta:
Pour the apple cider vinegar over the cooked macaroni and stir until the vinegar is fully absorbed. Cover the pot and set it aside to allow the pasta to come down to room temperature, approximately 20 minutes. - Mix in Half the Dressing:
After the pasta has rested, add half of the prepared dressing and mix well to ensure each noodle is coated. Cover the pot again and let it cool for another 20 minutes. - Final Touches:
Stir in the remaining dressing along with the finely grated carrots and diced celery. Adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed. Chill the salad in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours before serving to enhance the flavors.