Hawaiian Mac Salad Plate Lunch (Print-Friendly Version)

Creamy macaroni salad with carrots, celery, and tangy dressing—a Hawaiian plate lunch favorite with island flair.

# What You'll Need:

→ Pasta

01 - 250 g elbow macaroni

→ Dressing

02 - 240 ml mayonnaise
03 - 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
04 - 1/2 teaspoon fine sea salt
05 - 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

→ Vegetables

06 - 1 medium carrot, grated
07 - 1 celery stalk, finely chopped
08 - 1/4 small yellow onion, finely chopped

# How to Make It:

01 - Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add elbow macaroni and cook until very soft, about 10 to 12 minutes. Drain thoroughly and let cool to room temperature.
02 - In a large mixing bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, salt, and pepper until smooth and creamy.
03 - Add grated carrot, finely chopped celery, and onion to the bowl with dressing. Stir gently to evenly distribute the vegetables.
04 - Fold the cooled macaroni into the vegetable and dressing mixture, ensuring all pasta is thoroughly coated. Taste and adjust salt and pepper if necessary.
05 - Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or overnight, to allow flavors to meld and develop.
06 - Remove from refrigerator, give the salad a gentle stir, and serve chilled as a side or accompaniment.

# Additional Tips:

01 - For the creamiest result, ensure the macaroni is cooked until soft and fully cooled before mixing with the dressing.
02 - Letting the salad chill overnight intensifies its flavor and improves texture.