Ono Hawaiian BBQ Macaroni Salad
On warm summer days, there’s something incredibly comforting about a creamy, dreamy macaroni salad, especially one that takes you straight to the shores of Hawaii. The Ono Hawaiian BBQ Macaroni Salad is a treat that captures the essence of soft sandy beaches, the gentle ocean breeze, and the laughter of family eating together. It’s the kind of dish that brings everyone to the table, evoking memories of beach picnics and backyard barbecues, where every bite feels like a warm hug.
This delightful salad is more than just a side; it’s easy to whip up and makes a perfect accompaniment for any casual gathering or simply to enjoy at home during a cozy dinner. With the right balance of sweetness, creaminess, and a hint of tang, it’s a recipe you’ll definitely want to save for your next family meal or cookout!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick & Easy: This macaroni salad comes together effortlessly, making it a great choice for an easy weeknight dinner or last-minute picnic.
- Creamy & Dreamy: With a luscious dressing made from mayonnaise and whole milk, every bite feels indulgently creamy.
- Crowd-Pleasing Comfort Food: Perfect for gatherings, this salad is always a hit, pleasing the palates of kids and adults alike!
- Customizable: Feel free to get creative! Add your favorite mix-ins to make it uniquely yours.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: You can prepare it in advance, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully in the fridge.
This is one you’ll definitely want to pin for later!
What You’ll Need
Gather these simple ingredients to make your Ono Hawaiian BBQ Macaroni Salad:
- 2 Cups Elbow macaroni
- 1 Cup Mayonnaise
- ¼ Cup Whole milk
- 1 Tablespoon Brown sugar
- 2 Tablespoons Apple cider vinegar
- ½ Teaspoon Dijon mustard
- ½ Teaspoon Salt
- ¼ Teaspoon Black pepper
- ¼ Cup Grated carrot
- ¼ Cup Finely diced yellow onion
- ¼ Cup Finely diced celery
- 2 Tablespoons Finely chopped green onions
How to Make Ono Hawaiian BBQ Macaroni Salad
Let’s make it together! Follow these simple steps for a delicious macaroni salad:
- Boil the elbow macaroni according to the package instructions. Drain and let it cool to room temperature.
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, whole milk, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, salt, and black pepper until the dressing is smooth and well combined.
- In a large bowl, combine the cooked macaroni, grated carrot, diced onion, diced celery, and chopped green onions.
- Pour the prepared dressing over the macaroni mixture. Gently toss until the macaroni and vegetables are evenly coated with the dressing.
- Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate the macaroni salad for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and the salad to chill.
- Once chilled, give the macaroni salad a final toss and serve. Garnish with additional green onions if desired.
Fun Ways to Customize It
- Zesty Kick: Add a touch of heat with diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce mixed into the dressing for a spicy version.
- Creamy Avocado: Incorporate diced avocado for an extra creamy texture and a rich flavor boost.
- Protein-Packed: Toss in some shredded rotisserie chicken or chickpeas for a heartier salad that can stand alone as a meal.
- Herb Infusion: Fresh herbs like dill or parsley can brighten the dish and add a fresh layer of flavor.
Chef Emma’s Helpful Tips
- Make Ahead: This salad can be made a day in advance; the flavors will deepen and get even better.
- Ingredient Swaps: If you want to lighten it up a bit, you can substitute Greek yogurt for some or all of the mayonnaise for a tangy twist.
- Chill Time: Don’t rush the chilling process! Allowing the salad to rest helps the ingredients meld together beautifully.
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just remember to give it a good stir before serving again!
Nutrition Information per Serving
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 320
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Sugars: 3g
- Fat: 20g
- Protein: 5g
- Sodium: 400mg
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this ahead?
Absolutely! Preparing it a day in advance allows the flavors to develop beautifully.
Can I use different ingredients?
Yes! Feel free to swap in veggies or proteins based on your preferences.
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
How long does it last?
If stored properly, this macaroni salad will last about 3 days in the refrigerator.
A Cozy Closing Note
As we gather around tables filled with laughter and love, this Ono Hawaiian BBQ Macaroni Salad brings a taste of the tropical shores right into your kitchen. Simple yet beautiful, it makes every meal feel special. Save this delightful recipe to your family favorites board so it’s ready when you need a cozy treat, perfect for sunny days or impromptu gatherings! Enjoy making memories, one bite at a time!
