Print

Lighter Hawaiian Macaroni Salad Recipe

Print Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4 from 20 reviews

This Lighter Hawaiian Macaroni Salad is a refreshing and healthier twist on the classic creamy side dish, perfect for gatherings or a light meal. Made with tender macaroni, crunchy carrots, and onions, and dressed in a tangy blend of mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, honey, and apple cider vinegar, it offers a delightful balance of flavors and textures while keeping calories in check.

Ingredients

Salad

  • 1 pound macaroni
  • 1/2 cup grated carrot
  • 1/2 cup finely minced onion
  • 2 tablespoons fresh chopped parsley (optional)

Dressing

  • 1 cup mayonnaise
  • 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
  • 4 teaspoons apple cider vinegar
  • 2 tablespoons nonfat milk (more if needed)
  • 2 teaspoons honey
  • Salt & pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Cook the macaroni: Cook macaroni according to package instructions, aiming for a texture slightly softer than al dente. Once cooked, rinse immediately with cold water to halt the cooking process, then drain well. Allow the macaroni to cool to room temperature or chill in the refrigerator before proceeding.
  2. Prepare the dressing: In a small bowl, thoroughly combine mayonnaise, plain Greek yogurt, nonfat milk, honey, and apple cider vinegar. Stir well to create a smooth, tangy dressing.
  3. Combine the salad: Pour the dressing over the cooled macaroni. Gently fold with a spatula to ensure every piece of pasta is evenly coated. Then, fold in the grated carrot and finely minced onion to incorporate fresh crunch and flavor evenly throughout the salad.
  4. Chill and serve: Cover the salad and refrigerate until ready to serve, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. Optionally, sprinkle with fresh chopped parsley before serving for added color and freshness.

Notes

  • This salad tastes best when chilled for at least an hour to allow flavors to meld.
  • Adjust milk quantity to achieve desired dressing consistency.
  • For a dairy-free version, substitute mayonnaise and Greek yogurt with plant-based alternatives.
  • Fresh parsley adds a pop of color but can be omitted if unavailable.
  • Salt and pepper should be added to taste; start with a small amount and adjust accordingly.

Find it online: https://justsosavory.com/lighter-hawaiian-macaroni-salad-recipe/