Food Truck Hawaiian Mac Salad

If you’ve been to Hawaii and had Macaroni Salad there (usually referred to as Mac Salad), then you’ve probably been craving it ever since. If you haven’t been and haven’t had it, well then, you’ll just have to trust me that you absolutely need to make it. It’s macaroni salad, yes, but it’s macaroni salad that’s creamy as all get out with the perfect amount of sweetness and tang. It’s a plate lunch staple, sure, but that doesn’t mean it can’t be a staple at your potlucks and parties too.

This isn’t your mainland macaroni salad, so how does it differ? Well, for starters, you usually won’t find mustard and relish in the mix but you will find shredded carrots, grated onion, and sometimes celery for crunch. You also won’t find al dente pasta here – you want to overcook the noodles so they better absorb all the creaminess and flavor from the dressing. It’s soft and plump stuff.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Hawaiian Mac Salad is a delightful twist on the classic macaroni salad. Its creamy texture, combined with the sweetness and tang, makes it irresistible. Plus, it’s a simple dish that can elevate any gathering, from casual family meals to festive parties.

Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need

• Medium bowl
• Whisk
• Large pot
• Colander

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

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. First, make the dressing: In a medium bowl, whisk together the half and half, mayo, grated onion, sugar, salt, and pepper. Chill until ready to use.
2. In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the macaroni. Add 5 minutes to the time on package instructions – overcooking the pasta helps it absorb the dressing.
3. Drain macaroni, then add back to pot. Add apple cider vinegar and stir until absorbed. Cover pot and set aside to come down to room temperature, at least 20 minutes.
4. Once pasta has rested 20 minutes, add half the dressing and stir to combine. Cover again and let cool 20 minutes more.
5. Add in remaining dressing, along with celery and carrots. Adjust seasoning as needed and chill until ready to use, at least 2 hours. Enjoy!

Tips for Success

• Ensure the pasta is overcooked slightly to better absorb the dressing.
• Allow the pasta to cool before adding the dressing to prevent the mayo from melting.

Additional Tips and Variations

You can add diced pineapple for a sweet twist or a dash of soy sauce for added umami. For a spicier kick, try adding a pinch of cayenne pepper.

Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)

This salad is rich in flavor while providing a creamy texture. Keep portion sizes in mind to enjoy it as part of a balanced meal.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I make this salad in advance?
Yes, in fact, it tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together.

Can I use a different type of pasta?
While elbow macaroni is traditional, you can use any small pasta shape you prefer.

Conclusion

Now that you have a taste of Hawaii right at your fingertips, it’s time to bring this Food Truck Hawaiian Mac Salad to your table. Whether you’re reminiscing about a past trip or dreaming of a future one, this salad is sure to delight. Give it a try and let us know how it turns out!