Macaroni Hawaiian Salad
A fruity, creamy Hawaiian-inspired macaroni salad blending pineapple, mandarin oranges, and maraschino cherries with a sweet, custard-like sauce. Perfect for picnics and gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Drain the pineapple chunks, mandarin oranges, and maraschino cherries, saving the juice from the pineapple.
- Cook the rosamarina macaroni in salted water until tender; rinse with cold water and drain.
- In a saucepan, mix sugar, eggs, flour, salt, and the pineapple juice. Cook over medium heat until slightly thickened.
- Place the cooked macaroni in a large bowl with a cover.
- Pour the hot sauce over the macaroni, cover, and refrigerate overnight.
- In the morning, fold in the drained fruit and Cool Whip before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider using a bit of sour cream or Greek yogurt in place of some Cool Whip. If you want a tropical twist, add shredded coconut or chopped macadamia nuts. Make sure to cook the rosamarina macaroni just until tender, as it will soak up some of the sauce while chilling. Also, try using fresh fruit if you prefer a lighter option.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this Macaroni Hawaiian Salad chilled as a refreshing side dish for barbecues or potlucks. It pairs beautifully with grilled meats or fish, making it a perfect complement to summer meals. For an added crunch, consider serving it alongside a fresh garden salad or some crispy garlic bread.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator, where they will keep for up to three days. The salad may thicken as it sits, so you can stir in a little extra Cool Whip or fruit juice to loosen it before serving. Avoid freezing this salad, as the texture of the fruits may change.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Macaroni Hawaiian Salad contains roughly 328 calories, with 4g protein, 38g carbohydrates, and 19g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (24% of the Daily Value) and vitamin A (21% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 886mg per serving (39% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes, this salad is perfect for making ahead! Prepare it the night before and let it chill overnight, allowing the flavors to meld. Just remember to fold in the fruits and Cool Whip right before serving for the best texture.
What can I substitute for rosamarina?
If you can't find rosamarina, any small pasta like elbow macaroni or fusilli would work well. Just ensure you cook it according to the package instructions to achieve the right tenderness. This salad is versatile, so feel free to experiment with different pasta shapes.
Is this salad suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, this Macaroni Hawaiian Salad is suitable for vegetarians as it contains no meat products. It's a great addition to vegetarian recipes, providing a colorful and flavorful side dish that everyone can enjoy.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).