Authentic Hawaiian Mac Salad Recipe (Creamy + Tangy!)

Looking for that classic, creamy Hawaiian mac salad that pairs perfectly with BBQ meats, plate lunches, and summer gatherings? This easy, ono (delicious) mac salad recipe is the real deal — inspired by local Okazuya-style flavors right from the islands.

Whether you're prepping for a backyard luau, beach picnic, or potluck, this dish always brings the island vibes. It's rich, tangy, slightly sweet, and full of flavor in every bite — just how we love it in Hawaii.

🥣 Ingredients:

• 1 lb elbow macaroni

• ¼ cup apple cider vinegar

• 1½ cups whole milk (avoid skim or plant-based substitutes)

• 1½–2 cups Best Foods mayonnaise (adjust to taste)

• 2 boiled eggs

• 1 Tbsp brown sugar

• 4 green onion stalks, thinly sliced

• 1 medium carrot, peeled and shredded

• 1 cup green peas (or substitute with diced celery)

• 1 can of tuna, drained

• Salt & pepper (plus garlic salt if preferred)

🍴 Instructions:

1. Cook macaroni:
   Bring 4 quarts of water to a boil. Add 1 tablespoon salt and cook macaroni for 15 minutes until soft (not al dente). You can boil your eggs at the same time — just wash them, wrap in foil, and add them to the pot.

2. Toss with vinegar:
   Drain macaroni and return to the pot. While still warm, toss with apple cider vinegar. Stir in shredded carrots and peas. Let it cool for 10 minutes.

3. Make the dressing:
   In a bowl, whisk together whole milk, mayonnaise, brown sugar, ½ tsp salt, and 1 tsp pepper. The mix may seem thin — that’s okay.

4. Add tuna and eggs:
   Peel and chop the boiled eggs. Add them to the pasta with the drained can of tuna.

5. Combine gently:
   After letting the pasta cool for at least 10 minutes (important to avoid curdling), mix in the dressing. Stir well.

6. Final touches:
   Let the salad cool completely. Add green onions as garnish and adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, or garlic salt to taste.

7. Chill and serve:
   Cover and chill for at least 1 hour before serving. The pasta will absorb the dressing for maximum flavor.

Serving Tips:

• Pairs perfectly with BBQ chicken, kalbi ribs, or loco moco plates.

• Add a scoop of white rice and protein for a classic Hawaiian lunch plate.

• Keeps well in the fridge for up to 3 days — just give it a good stir before serving.

Planning your next island-style picnic? Stock up on local Hawaiian snacks, dried fruits, and must-try treats from our Snack Hawaii store and make every meal feel like a luau.

No Hawaiian-style BBQ is complete without classic island bites! Check out our full Hawaiian snacks collection for goodies to serve alongside your mac salad.

Round out your backyard BBQ with something sweet! Explore our Hawaiian candy selection for local favorites that everyone will love.

Final Note:

This Hawaiian mac salad is comfort food at its best — creamy, tangy, and full of nostalgic island flavor. Try it once and you'll see why it's a staple at every local BBQ!

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