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Creamy Hawaiian Macaroni Salad with Ham and Pineapple

creamy Hawaiian macaroni salad - featured image
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A creamy, tangy macaroni salad featuring juicy pineapple chunks and savory ham, perfect for year-round gatherings and potlucks.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 cups (8 oz / 225 g) elbow macaroni, cooked al dente
  • 1 cup diced cooked ham
  • 1 cup fresh pineapple chunks
  • ½ cup finely chopped celery
  • ½ cup finely diced red bell pepper
  • 3 stalks green onions, thinly sliced
  • ¾ cup mayonnaise
  • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 teaspoon honey (optional)
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Optional add-ins: chopped hard-boiled eggs or shredded carrots

Instructions

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add 2 cups (8 oz / 225 g) of elbow macaroni and cook according to package instructions, about 7-8 minutes, until al dente.
  2. Drain the macaroni in a colander and rinse under cold water to stop cooking. Let it drain completely.
  3. Dice 1 cup cooked ham, chop 1 cup fresh pineapple into chunks, finely chop ½ cup celery, ½ cup red bell pepper, and slice 3 green onions. Prepare optional eggs or carrots if using.
  4. In a small bowl, whisk together ¾ cup mayonnaise, 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar, 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard, and 1 teaspoon honey (if using). Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  5. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled macaroni, ham, pineapple, celery, bell pepper, and green onions. Pour the dressing over and gently fold together until evenly coated.
  6. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving to allow flavors to meld.
  7. Before serving, stir gently and adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, or vinegar if needed.

Notes

Do not overcook the pasta to avoid mushiness. Rinse pasta with cold water immediately after cooking to stop cooking and prevent a watery salad. Use fresh pineapple for best flavor and texture. Chill salad for at least 1 hour or overnight for best flavor. Stir gently to avoid breaking pasta. For dairy-free, substitute mayonnaise with vegan mayo or avocado dressing. For gluten-free, use gluten-free pasta.

Nutrition

Keywords: macaroni salad, Hawaiian salad, ham salad, pineapple salad, creamy salad, potluck recipe, summer salad

Find it online: https://siennaspoon.com/creamy-hawaiian-macaroni-salad-with-ham-and-pineapple-easy-recipe/