Ono Hawaiian Macaroni Salad Recipe

Aloha, friends! If you’ve ever been to a Hawaiian plate lunch spot, you know the magic of a creamy, tangy macaroni salad sitting proudly next to a pile of kalua pork or teriyaki chicken. It’s the ultimate comfort side dish—simple, satisfying, and oh-so-addictive. 

I first fell in love with Hawaiian macaroni salad on a trip to Oahu years ago. I was at a food truck, devouring a plate lunch, and that little scoop of creamy pasta stole the show. I knew I had to recreate it at home, and after some tweaking, I’ve got a recipe that brings those island vibes straight to your kitchen.

This Ono Hawaiian Macaroni Salad is my take on the classic, with a perfect balance of creaminess, tang, and crunch. It’s the kind of dish that makes you want to fire up the grill, invite some friends over, and pretend you’re on a beach in Waikiki. Let’s dive into how to make this crowd-pleaser!

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Ono Hawaiian Macaroni Salad Recipe – A Taste of Hawaii at Home

Why You'll Love This Ono Hawaiian Macaroni Salad Recipe

This macaroni salad is a love letter to Hawaiian plate lunches. It’s creamy without being heavy, with just the right amount of tang from vinegar and a subtle sweetness that ties it all together. The grated carrots and onions add a bit of crunch and flavor, making every bite interesting. 

Plus, it’s super easy to whip up, even if you’re not a pro in the kitchen. You can make it ahead for potlucks, barbecues, or just a cozy family dinner. 

It’s versatile, pairs with almost anything, and keeps well in the fridge for days. Trust me, this is the side dish your summer gatherings need!

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Ingredients For Ono Hawaiian Macaroni Salad

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious Hawaiian macaroni salad. 

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Kitchen Equipment Needed

You don’t need anything fancy to make this recipe, just some basic kitchen gear:

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Ono Hawaiian Macaroni Salad Recipe – Easy Summer Meal Prep

Step-by-Step Instructions

Let’s get cooking! These steps are broken down to make it easy for anyone to follow, whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned home cook.

1. Cook the Macaroni

Fill a large pot with water and bring it to a rolling boil over high heat. Add a generous pinch of salt to the water—it should taste slightly salty, like seawater. Once boiling, add 2 cups (200g) of elbow macaroni. 

Stir gently to prevent sticking. Cook according to the package instructions, usually 7-8 minutes, until the pasta is tender but not mushy. 

Drain the macaroni in a colander and rinse it briefly with cold water to stop the cooking process. Set aside to cool slightly.

2. Prepare the Vegetables

While the pasta cooks, grab a grater. Peel one small carrot and grate it finely to get about ½ cup (60g). Next, peel a small onion and grate it finely to yield about ¼ cup (40g). 

Grating the onion ensures it blends into the salad without overwhelming it with big chunks. Place the grated carrot and onion in a small bowl and set aside.

3. Make the Creamy Dressing

In a large mixing bowl, combine 1 cup (240ml) of mayonnaise, ¼ cup (60ml) of whole milk, 2 tablespoons (30ml) of apple cider vinegar, and 1 tablespoon (12g) of granulated sugar. 

Use a whisk to mix until smooth and creamy. Add ½ teaspoon of salt and ¼ teaspoon of black pepper, and whisk again to incorporate. 

Taste the dressing and adjust seasoning if needed—it should be creamy, tangy, and slightly sweet.

4. Combine Ingredients

Add the cooked and slightly cooled elbow macaroni to the large mixing bowl with the dressing. Toss gently with a spatula to coat the pasta evenly. 

Next, add the grated carrot and onion. Stir gently until everything is well combined. The salad should look creamy and cohesive, with the vegetables evenly distributed.

5. Chill the Salad

Cover the large mixing bowl with plastic wrap or transfer the salad to an airtight container. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour, preferably 2-3 hours, to let the flavors meld. 

This step is key for that authentic Hawaiian macaroni salad taste, as the pasta absorbs the dressing and the flavors deepen.

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Serving Suggestions

This Ono Hawaiian Macaroni Salad is the perfect sidekick for so many dishes. Serve it alongside Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken or BBQ Pulled Pork Sandwiches for a true plate lunch experience. 

It’s also fantastic with Baja Fish Tacos or Teriyaki Grilled Chicken. For a fun twist, scoop it into lettuce cups for a lighter meal. 

It’s great for picnics, potlucks, or just a weeknight dinner with family.

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Ono Hawaiian Macaroni Salad Recipe – Crowd Pleasing Comfort Food

Variations to Try

Want to mix things up? Here are some fun ways to tweak this recipe:

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Storage and Reheating

Store your macaroni salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. Give it a good stir before serving, as the dressing may settle. If it looks a bit dry, add a tablespoon of mayonnaise or whole milk to refresh it. 

This salad doesn’t freeze well, as the mayonnaise can separate, so it’s best enjoyed fresh or within a few days.

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Nutritional Facts

Here’s the approximate nutritional breakdown per serving (based on 6 servings):

  • Calories: 320 kcal
  • Fat: 20g
  • Saturated Fat: 3g
  • Carbohydrates: 30g
  • Sugars: 4g
  • Protein: 5g
  • Sodium: 400mg
  • Fiber: 1g

These values are estimates and can vary based on specific brands or portion sizes.

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Health Benefits of Key Ingredients

This salad isn’t just tasty—it’s got some nutritious perks too:

  • Carrots: Packed with beta-carotene, which supports eye health and boosts immunity.
  • Onions: Rich in antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds, great for heart health.
  • Elbow Macaroni: Provides quick energy from carbohydrates, perfect for an active day.
  • Apple Cider Vinegar: May aid digestion and help stabilize blood sugar levels.

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Tips for Success

Here are some pro tips to nail this recipe every time:

  • Cook the elbow macaroni until tender but not mushy—al dente won’t absorb the dressing as well.
  • Grate the onion finely to avoid overpowering the salad with raw onion flavor.
  • Let the salad chill for at least an hour to meld the flavors.
  • Taste the dressing before adding the pasta and adjust the salt or sugar to your liking.
  • Double the recipe for a crowd—it’s always a hit!

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FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, you can swap elbow macaroni for other short pastas like shells or ditalini. Just make sure to cook it until tender, as the texture is key to soaking up the dressing.

2. Can I make this salad dairy-free?

Absolutely! Replace the whole milk with a plant-based milk like almond milk and use a dairy-free mayonnaise. The flavor will be slightly different but still delicious.

3. How can I make this salad healthier?

Try using a lighter mayonnaise or Greek yogurt for part of the dressing. You can also add more veggies like peas or celery for extra nutrients.

4. Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, this salad is perfect for making ahead! Prepare it the day before and store it in the fridge. The flavors get even better after sitting overnight.

5. Why is my salad too dry after chilling?

The pasta absorbs the dressing as it sits. If it’s too dry, stir in a tablespoon or two of mayonnaise or whole milk before serving to bring back the creaminess.

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Final Thoughts

This Ono Hawaiian Macaroni Salad is like a little taste of the islands in every bite. It’s creamy, tangy, and just the right amount of sweet, making it the ultimate side dish for any meal. I love how it brings back memories of sunny Hawaiian days and laid-back vibes. 

Whether you’re serving it at a barbecue, potluck, or just a cozy dinner at home, this recipe is sure to be a hit. So grab your large mixing bowl, cook up some elbow macaroni, and let’s bring some aloha to your table!

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Ono Hawaiian Macaroni Salad Recipe