Indulge in a tropical culinary journey with our mouthwatering Food Truck Hawaiian Mac Salad recipe! Inspired by the vibrant flavors of Hawaii, this creamy and flavorful macaroni salad is a beloved staple in Hawaiian cuisine. Made with simple yet delicious ingredients, it’s the perfect side dish to complement your favorite grilled meats, seafood, or enjoy on its own as a refreshing snack. So, fire up the grill, put on your favorite Hawaiian shirt, and let’s dive into the irresistible flavors of Food Truck Hawaiian Mac Salad!
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
Step 1: Cook the Macaroni
- In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the elbow macaroni according to the package instructions until al dente.
- Drain the macaroni and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process. Set aside.
Step 2: Prepare the Dressing
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the half and half, mayonnaise, finely grated yellow onion, granulated sugar, salt, and black pepper. Whisk until smooth and well combined.
Step 3: Assemble the Salad
- In a small bowl, mix together the apple cider vinegar and cooked macaroni. This step helps to infuse flavor into the macaroni.
- In the same large mixing bowl with the dressing, add the macaroni, grated carrots, and diced celery. Gently toss until the macaroni and vegetables are evenly coated with the dressing.
Step 4: Chill and Serve
- Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate the macaroni salad for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to meld together.
- Before serving, give the macaroni salad a final toss and adjust the seasoning if necessary.
- Serve chilled and enjoy the taste of Hawaii!
Cook Notes and Variations
- Add Pineapple: For a truly Hawaiian twist, add chunks of fresh pineapple to the macaroni salad for a burst of sweetness and tropical flavor.
- Extra Crunch: Incorporate chopped macadamia nuts or toasted coconut flakes for added texture and crunch.
- Spice it Up: For a kick of heat, add a dash of Sriracha or chopped jalapeños to the dressing.
FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)
Q: Can I use regular milk instead of half and half? A: Yes, you can substitute regular milk for half and half if you prefer. However, half and half adds richness to the dressing, so the flavor and texture may vary slightly.
Q: How long will the macaroni salad last in the refrigerator? A: Properly stored in an airtight container, the macaroni salad can last for up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator. Be sure to give it a good stir before serving to redistribute the dressing.
Q: Can I make this salad ahead of time? A: Yes, this macaroni salad can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator until ready to serve. In fact, the flavors tend to develop even more after chilling for a few hours.
Keto Version
For a keto-friendly version of Food Truck Hawaiian Mac Salad, you can substitute the macaroni with cooked cauliflower florets or shirataki noodles. Use full-fat mayonnaise and heavy cream instead of half and half for a creamy dressing. Adjust the amount of sugar or use a keto-friendly sweetener such as erythritol to keep the carb count low.
Low-Carb Version
To make a low-carb version of this macaroni salad, follow the keto version instructions and choose low-carb vegetables such as shredded cabbage or broccoli florets instead of carrots and celery. You can also reduce the amount of sugar or omit it entirely for a lower-carb option.
In conclusion, Food Truck Hawaiian Mac Salad is a delightful combination of creamy dressing, tender macaroni, and crisp vegetables that transports you to the sunny shores of Hawaii with every bite. Whether you’re hosting a backyard luau, packing a picnic lunch, or simply craving a taste of the islands, this macaroni salad is sure to delight your taste buds and leave you craving more. With its easy preparation and versatile ingredients, it’s the perfect side dish for any occasion. So, whip up a batch today and savor the flavors of paradise with Food Truck Hawaiian Mac Salad!
