Ono Hawaiian BBQ Macaroni Salad : The Perfect Tiki Food Side Dish

Looking for the ultimate Hawaiian BBQ food to complement your next meal or party? Look no further than this Ono Hawaiian BBQ Macaroni Salad! This creamy, tangy side dish is a classic in Hawaiian cuisine, and it’s perfect for summer gatherings, backyard luau parties, or any time you want to add a tropical flair to your meal.

Made with elbow macaroni, a sweet and tangy dressing, and a dash of Hawaiian flavors, this macaroni salad brings all the tropical vibes to your table. Whether you’re serving it as a side for your grilled meats or enjoying it as a light lunch, this dish is a great way to elevate your menu.

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Why You’ll Love Ono Hawaiian BBQ Macaroni Salad

This Ono Hawaiian BBQ Macaroni Salad is the perfect combination of creamy, sweet, and tangy. The macaroni is perfectly cooked, and the dressing made with mayo, apple cider vinegar, and a hint of sugar creates the signature sweet-and-sour taste you’ll find in Hawaiian food sides. What makes this salad extra special is that it gets even better after sitting for a while, allowing all the flavors to meld together.

It’s not only delicious but also super easy to make, making it a go-to recipe for busy weeknights or a great addition to your Tiki food recipes. If you’re planning a Hawaiian BBQ, this side will be a hit at your party or gathering.

Who This Recipe Is For

This recipe is perfect for anyone who loves Hawaiian food, summer cookouts, or easy lunch ideas. Whether you’re hosting a backyard luau, making a simple side for a weeknight meal, or just craving something tropical, this macaroni salad fits the bill. It’s also great for anyone looking to try something new, with a refreshing flavor profile that brings something special to the table.

If you’re planning a Hawaiian-themed party or just want a delicious, cool side dish for hot days, this salad will be a crowd-pleaser.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To make this Ono Hawaiian BBQ Macaroni Salad, you’ll need the following ingredients:

For the Salad:

• 1 lb elbow macaroni (about 4 cups)
• 1 cup mayonnaise (preferably full-fat)
• 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
• 2 tablespoons sugar
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• 1/4 cup grated carrot
• 1/4 cup finely chopped celery
• 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
• Salt and pepper to taste

For Garnish (optional):

• Fresh parsley or chives (chopped)

Ingredient Notes and Variations

• Mayonnaise: For the best flavor and creamy texture, stick with full-fat mayo. If you prefer a lighter version, you can use Greek yogurt or light mayo.
• Apple cider vinegar: This adds a nice tang to balance the richness of the mayo. If you prefer a different acidity, you can also use white vinegar.
• Carrots and celery: These ingredients add crunch and a bit of freshness to the salad. You can adjust the quantities to suit your taste or add other vegetables like bell peppers for extra flavor.
• Sweetness: Adjust the sugar to suit your sweetness preference. If you like it sweeter, feel free to add more.

Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need

• Large pot (for cooking the macaroni)
• Colander (for draining the macaroni)
• Large mixing bowl
• Spoon or spatula for mixing
• Measuring cups and spoons

Step-by-Step Preparation: How to Make Ono Hawaiian BBQ Macaroni Salad

Step 1: Cook the Macaroni

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook according to the package directions, usually about 8-10 minutes, until al dente. Drain the macaroni and rinse it with cold water to stop the cooking process. Allow the pasta to cool completely.

Step 2: Prepare the Dressing

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, sugar, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper. Taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary. The dressing should be creamy with a slight tang and sweetness.

Step 3: Combine the Ingredients

Once the macaroni has cooled, add it to the dressing mixture along with the grated carrot, celery, and finely chopped onion. Mix everything together until the macaroni is fully coated with the dressing.

Step 4: Chill and Serve

Cover the salad and refrigerate it for at least 1-2 hours before serving to allow the flavors to meld together. This salad is best served cold and can be made a day in advance for even better flavor.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Before serving, garnish the salad with freshly chopped parsley or chives for a pop of color. Serve as a side dish to your favorite Hawaiian BBQ or enjoy it as a light, refreshing lunch.

Pro Tips for the Best Ono Hawaiian BBQ Macaroni Salad

• Let it chill: For the best flavor, let the salad sit in the fridge for a few hours (or overnight) to allow the dressing to soak into the macaroni and veggies.
• Don’t overcook the pasta: Make sure to cook the pasta al dente, as it will absorb more of the dressing and have a better texture once chilled.
• Add-ins: Feel free to add extras like hard-boiled eggs, pineapple, or even bacon for a more substantial salad.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Not letting the pasta cool: If you don’t allow the macaroni to cool completely, the dressing will get watery and not stick as well to the pasta.
• Overmixing: Stir gently to combine the pasta and dressing so you don’t break the macaroni. The goal is a creamy salad with intact pasta.
• Skipping the chill time: The flavor improves dramatically after a few hours in the fridge, so don’t skip this step!

Serving Suggestions

This Ono Hawaiian BBQ Macaroni Salad is perfect as a side for grilled meats like BBQ chicken, roast pork, or grilled shrimp. You can also serve it at a luau-themed party or pair it with a tropical drink like a pina colada for a fun, laid-back meal.

Creative Presentation Ideas

• Serve the salad in a large bowl with a sprinkle of toasted coconut for a tropical touch.
• For a party, spoon the salad into small cups or mason jars for easy individual servings.

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Flavor Variations and Add-Ins

• Pineapple: Add small chunks of pineapple for a sweet, juicy kick.
• Crispy bacon: Crumbled bacon adds a savory crunch that contrasts nicely with the creamy dressing.
• Olives: Black olives bring a briny, savory flavor to the dish.

How to Store and Reheat

Store any leftover macaroni salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. This dish is best served cold, and you can re-chill it before serving if needed.

Make-Ahead Tips

Make this macaroni salad a day ahead for the best results. The flavors develop even more after sitting in the fridge overnight.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different pasta for this recipe?
Yes! While elbow macaroni is traditional, you can use any small pasta shape, like rotini or shell pasta.

Can I make this salad dairy-free?
To make this salad dairy-free, substitute the mayonnaise with vegan mayo and use a plant-based yogurt for the creamy element.

Final Thoughts: Why Ono Hawaiian BBQ Macaroni Salad Is a Keeper

This Ono Hawaiian BBQ Macaroni Salad is a crowd-pleasing, creamy, and refreshing side dish that’s perfect for Hawaiian BBQ, summer gatherings, and backyard luau parties. Easy to make and full of tropical flavors, it’s a great addition to your next meal or party spread. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a dish that everyone will love.

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