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Creamy Hawaiian Macaroni Salad Recipe with Zesty Apple Cider Vinegar

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A creamy, tangy Hawaiian macaroni salad featuring zesty apple cider vinegar, crunchy celery, and sweet pineapple chunks. Perfect as a quick, crowd-pleasing side dish for gatherings or casual meals.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 8 ounces elbow macaroni, cooked al dente
  • 3/4 cup mayonnaise (preferably full-fat)
  • 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
  • 1/2 cup chopped celery (about 1 stalk)
  • 1/3 cup shredded carrot (1 medium carrot)
  • 2 tablespoons chopped green onions
  • 1/2 cup pineapple chunks, drained (fresh or canned in juice)
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • Optional: 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder or onion powder

Instructions

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add 8 ounces of elbow macaroni and cook for 7-8 minutes until al dente. Drain well in a colander and rinse briefly under cold water to stop cooking. Set aside to drain completely.
  2. While the pasta cooks, chop 1/2 cup celery, shred 1 medium carrot, and finely slice 2 tablespoons green onions. Drain 1/2 cup pineapple chunks thoroughly.
  3. In a large bowl, whisk together 3/4 cup mayonnaise, 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar, and 1 tablespoon sugar until smooth. Season with 1/2 teaspoon salt and 1/4 teaspoon black pepper. Stir in optional garlic or onion powder if using.
  4. Add the cooled macaroni to the dressing and stir gently to coat evenly.
  5. Fold in the chopped celery, shredded carrot, green onions, and pineapple chunks carefully to keep texture intact.
  6. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving to let flavors meld. Stir gently before serving.

Notes

Do not overcook the pasta to avoid a gummy salad. Drain pineapple well to prevent watery dressing. Use full-fat mayo for best creaminess. Chill salad for at least 1 hour or overnight for best flavor. Stir gently to keep texture intact. For gluten-free, use gluten-free pasta. Optional garlic or onion powder adds extra depth.

Nutrition

Keywords: Hawaiian macaroni salad, creamy macaroni salad, apple cider vinegar salad, pineapple macaroni salad, easy side dish, potluck recipe

Find it online: https://magnetmeal.com/creamy-hawaiian-macaroni-salad-recipe-with-zesty-apple-cider-vinegar-easy-and-perfect/