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Lighter Hawaiian Macaroni Salad Recipe

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3.8 from 6 reviews

  • Author: Lea
  • Total Time: 20 minutes
  • Yield: 12 servings
  • Diet: Low Fat

Description

This Lighter Hawaiian Macaroni Salad is a refreshing and healthier twist on the classic creamy side dish. Combining tender macaroni with a tangy dressing made from Greek yogurt, mayonnaise, and apple cider vinegar, it’s packed with grated carrots and minced onions for crunch and flavor. Perfectly chilled, this salad makes a delightful accompaniment to any summer barbecue or potluck.

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 Macaroni: Cook the macaroni according to the package instructions until slightly softer than al dente. Drain and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process, then drain thoroughly. Allow the macaroni to cool to room temperature or chill it in the refrigerator to ensure the salad won't be warm.
  2. Prepare Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, nonfat milk, honey, and apple cider vinegar until smooth and well combined. Adjust milk quantity to reach desired dressing consistency.
  3. Combine Salad: Pour the dressing over the cooled macaroni and gently fold using a spatula until all the pasta is coated evenly. Fold in the grated carrot and finely minced onion to distribute throughout the salad.
  4. Chill and Serve: Cover the salad and chill in the refrigerator until ready to serve to allow flavors to meld and the salad to be fully refreshed.

Notes

  • For best flavor, prepare the salad a few hours ahead to let it chill and marinate.
  • Adjust the honey and apple cider vinegar to suit your preferred balance of sweetness and tanginess.
  • If you prefer a thinner dressing, add more nonfat milk gradually.
  • Fresh parsley is optional but adds a nice touch of color and freshness.
  • Use gluten-free macaroni if you need a gluten-free version.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10 minutes
  • Category: Side Dish
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Hawaiian

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