Name: Ono Hawaiian BBQ Macaroni Salad
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: Hawaiian
Ingredients: 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

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Cozy Ono Hawaiian BBQ Macaroni Salad

There’s something so soothing about a creamy, dreamy bowl of macaroni salad, isn’t there? It takes me back to sunny summer days spent at family picnics, where laughter filled the air, and the tantalizing aroma of grilled goodness danced around us. One of my all-time favorites has to be Ono Hawaiian BBQ Macaroni Salad. Rich, velvety, and jazzed up with fresh veggies, it’s ideal for easy weeknight dinners or as a delightful side at your next gathering. This is one you’ll definitely want to pin for later!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick to Prepare: This macaroni salad comes together effortlessly, making it perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute potlucks.
Family-Friendly: With its creamy texture and mild flavors, it’s a guaranteed hit amongst both kids and adults alike.
Versatile Side Dish: Whether it’s a BBQ, picnic, or casual dinner at home, this salad fits right in at any table.
Crowd-Pleasing Comfort Food: The sensational combination of textures and flavors is sure to please any crowd and keep everyone coming back for seconds.
Make-Ahead Friendly: Ideal for meal prep, you can whip it up ahead of time so that you’re always ready for impromptu gatherings.

What You’ll Need

Gather These Simple Ingredients:

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

Step-by-Step Instructions

Let’s Make It Together:

Boil the elbow macaroni according to the package instructions. Drain and let it cool to room temperature.
In a mixing bowl, whisk together the 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 for a pop of color and freshness.

Fun Ways to Customize It

Delicious Variations to Try:

Zesty Addition: Stir in diced pickles or relish for a tangy twist that adds a delightful crunch to each bite.
Creamy Avocado Swirl: Replace some of the mayonnaise with ripe avocado for a rich flavor and a creamy texture that’s sure to impress.
Protein Boost: Add in some shredded chicken or diced turkey for a heartier dish that can stand on its own!
Spice it Up: A sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños can add an exciting kick to this classic dish.

Chef Emma’s Helpful Tips

Make-Ahead Magic: You can prepare this salad a day in advance. Just remember to give it a good stir before serving to refresh the creamy dressing!
Ingredient Swaps: Feel free to replace whole milk with buttermilk for a slightly tangy flavor or use Greek yogurt for a healthier twist.
Storage Suggestions: Keep any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The flavors only get better with time!

Nutrition Information per Serving

Serving Size: 1 cup
Calories: 250
Carbohydrates: 22g
Sugar: 2g
Fat: 18g
Protein: 4g
Sodium: 300mg

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this ahead? Absolutely! This salad tastes even better when made a day ahead, allowing the flavors to meld together beautifully.
Can I use different ingredients? Yes! Feel free to customize with your favorite veggies or proteins. The dressing can also be adjusted to suit your tastes.
How do I store leftovers? Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator; they should be good for about 3 days.
How long does it last? When stored properly in the fridge, this macaroni salad can last up to 3 days without losing its delicious flavor.

Final Thoughts

This Ono Hawaiian BBQ Macaroni Salad is not just a recipe; it’s a comforting embrace of nostalgia wrapped up in creamy goodness. It’s perfect for meals at home or to bring along when you’re heading to share a meal with loved ones. Save this Ono Hawaiian BBQ Macaroni Salad to your summer meal ideas board so it’s ready when you need a cozy treat!