Hawaiian Macaroni Salad

While we love and turn to classic, tried and true recipes all the time, we also love coming up with new and exciting ways to reinvent some of said classics…like macaroni salad. While there’s nothing necessarily wrong with the old-fashioned version, there are plenty of ways it can be updated, and we went with a tropical version here: Hawaiian macaroni salad.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Hawaiian Macaroni Salad is a delightful twist on the traditional version, offering a refreshing burst of tropical flavors. The tangy apple cider vinegar gives the pasta a zesty kick, while the juicy pineapple and savory ham create a perfect sweet-savory balance. Ideal for summer gatherings, this dish transports you to a warm, sun-kissed beach with every bite.

Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need

• Large pot for cooking pasta
• Colander for draining pasta
• Medium bowl for preparing dressing
• Large mixing bowl for combining ingredients
• Whisk for mixing the dressing

Ingredients

Salad:

• 1 pound elbow macaroni, cooked and drained
• 1/3 cup apple cider vinegar
• 1 (20 oz.) can pineapple chunks, juices reserved
• 1 (8 oz.) package diced ham, patted dry with paper towel
• 1 cup carrots, shredded
• 1/2 cup green onions, thinly sliced

Dressing:

• 3/4 cup reserved pineapple juice
• 1 tablespoon sugar
• 1 1/2 cups mayonnaise
• 1 (6 oz.) container pineapple yogurt

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Cook the macaroni according to package instructions. Once cooked, drain and allow to cool slightly.
2. Stir in the apple cider vinegar while the pasta is still warm and set aside.
3. In a medium bowl, whisk together the reserved pineapple juice and sugar until the sugar dissolves.
4. Mix in the mayonnaise and pineapple yogurt to form a smooth dressing.
5. In a large bowl, combine the macaroni, pineapple chunks, diced ham, shredded carrots, and sliced green onions.
6. Pour the dressing over the salad ingredients and toss until everything is well-coated.
7. Serve immediately, or cover and refrigerate for 20 minutes to 2 hours for enhanced flavors. Enjoy!

Tips for Success

• Ensure the pasta is not overcooked to maintain a firm texture in the salad.
• Pat the ham dry to prevent watering down the salad.
• Adjust the sweetness of the dressing by adding more or less sugar to taste.

Additional Tips or Variations

• For added crunch, consider mixing in some chopped bell peppers or celery.
• Swap out the ham for cooked chicken or turkey for a different protein option.
• For a spicy kick, add a dash of cayenne pepper to the dressing.

Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)

Calories: 350 | Protein: 10g | Carbohydrates: 45g | Fat: 15g | Sugars: 8g

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare it up to a day in advance. Store it in the refrigerator and give it a good stir before serving.

Is there a substitute for pineapple yogurt?

If you can’t find pineapple yogurt, plain Greek yogurt with a tablespoon of honey can be used instead.

Conclusion

This Hawaiian Macaroni Salad is a celebration of vibrant flavors and textures that bring a taste of the tropics to your table. Whether you’re serving it at a family barbecue or as a delightful side for dinner, it’s sure to be a hit. Give this recipe a try and let us know how it turned out for you in the comments below!