Easy Ono Hawaiian BBQ Mac Salad Recipe Youll Love
Ono hawaiian bbq mac salad recipe brings a creamy, tangy, and slightly sweet side dish, perfect alongside grilled meats or enjoyed as a light lunch.
Equipment
- Large pot
- Colander
- Large Mixing Bowl
- Whisk
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Knife
- Cutting board
- Plastic wrap or airtight container
Ingredients
- 1 pound elbow macaroni
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup milk
- 2 tablespoons white vinegar
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 cup finely grated carrot
- 1/4 cup finely diced celery
- 1/4 cup finely chopped sweet onion (optional)
Instructions
- Step 1: Cook the Macaroni: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook according to package directions, until al dente. Overcooking will result in a mushy salad. Drain the macaroni thoroughly and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process. Ensure all excess water is removed.
- Step 2: Prepare the Dressing: In a large bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, milk, white vinegar, sugar, salt, and pepper until smooth. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed. Some prefer a sweeter dressing, while others favor more tang; personalize to preference.
- Step 3: Combine Ingredients: Add the cooked and cooled macaroni, grated carrot, diced celery, and chopped sweet onion (if using) to the bowl with the dressing. Gently fold all ingredients together until the macaroni is evenly coated. Take care not to overmix, which can lead to a pasty texture.
- Step 4: Chill: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or preferably overnight. This allows the flavors to meld and the salad to develop its signature creamy texture. Stir gently before serving.
- Step 5: Serve: Serve cold as a side dish to grilled meats, Hawaiian BBQ, or as part of a plate lunch. Garnish with a sprinkle of paprika or chopped parsley for added visual appeal, if desired. For a tangier flavor, increase the amount of vinegar. For a sweeter salad, add a touch more sugar or a tablespoon of condensed milk. If the salad seems too thick after chilling, add a splash more milk to reach the desired consistency.
Notes
Variations
- Ingredient Swaps: For a healthier twist, substitute Greek yogurt for part of the mayonnaise. Add diced ham, tuna, or hard-boiled eggs for a protein boost. Experiment with different vegetables, such as bell peppers or peas.
- Regional Twists: Incorporate furikake (Japanese seaweed seasoning) for a unique umami flavor. Add a splash of soy sauce or sesame oil for an Asian-inspired variation. Include pineapple chunks for a more tropical flavor.
- Dietary Adjustments: For a vegan option, use vegan mayonnaise and ensure all other ingredients are plant-based. To reduce sugar content, use a sugar substitute or reduce the amount of sugar called for in the recipe. Gluten-free macaroni can be substituted to accommodate those with gluten sensitivities.
Serving Suggestions
The ono hawaiian bbq mac salad recipe is ideally served cold as a side dish, complementing grilled meats, especially those prepared in the Hawaiian BBQ style. It is well-suited for potlucks, picnics, and summer gatherings. Consider pairing it with kalua pig, teriyaki chicken, or huli huli chicken for an authentic Hawaiian experience. It also serves as a refreshing accompaniment to spicy dishes, offering a cooling contrast. The salad can be served as part of a plate lunch, alongside rice and a protein.
Storage Tips
To preserve freshness, the prepared salad should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Properly stored, it will remain fresh for 35 days. It is advisable to stir the salad before serving, as the dressing may settle at the bottom. Freezing is generally not recommended, as the mayonnaise-based dressing tends to separate and become watery upon thawing, affecting the texture and overall quality of the dish.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Question 1: Can I make this salad ahead of time?Answer: Yes, this salad benefits from being made a day in advance, allowing the flavors to meld.
- Question 2: What can I use instead of white vinegar?Answer: Apple cider vinegar or rice vinegar can be used as substitutes, offering slightly different flavor profiles.
- Question 3: The salad is too thick. How can I thin it out?Answer: Add a tablespoon or two of milk at a time until the desired consistency is reached.
- Question 4: Can I use a different type of pasta?Answer: While elbow macaroni is traditional, small shells or ditalini pasta can be used as alternatives.