Hawaiian Macaroni Salad (Vegan)

This plant-based Hawaiian Macaroni Salad thats vegan creamy, tangy, and irresistibly delicious—just like the classic island-style side dish, but made entirely dairy-free. Perfect for BBQs, picnics, or potlucks, it features tender elbow macaroni tossed with a rich vegan mayo dressing, a touch of vinegar, shredded carrots, and a hint of sweetness. It’s a chilled comfort food favorite that pairs beautifully with grilled tofu, BBQ jackfruit, or fresh pineapple skewers. Make it ahead—it tastes even better the next day!

Ingredients:

8 oz Elbow Macaroni (or shell pasta)

1 cup Vegan Mayo (recommend Vegenaise or Hellmann’s vegan)

1/4 cup Unsweetened Plain Plant-Based Milk (like soy or oat)

2 tsp Apple Cider Vinegar (or white vinegar)

2 tsp Coconut Sugar (or cane sugar)

1 tsp Dijon Mustard or Yellow Mustard

1 large Carrot, finely shredded (optional)

1/2 cup Finely Chopped Celery

1/2 cup Chopped Red Bell Peppers

1/4 cup Finely Chopped Sweet Onion (like Maui or yellow onion)

1/4 cup Finely Chopped Green Onions (optional for garnish)

1/2 tsp Garlic Powder

1/4 tsp Ground Black Pepper

1/2 tsp Salt (or to taste)

Pinch of Turmeric for a soft yellow hue (optional, but pretty!)

Optional add-ins: Chopped Pickles, Sweet Relish for extra tang or Peas

Instructions

Cook macaroni according to package directions until very tender (slightly softer than al dente — this is key for the authentic soft texture). Drain and rinse with cold water to cool it down completely.

In a large bowl, whisk together the vegan mayo, plant milk, vinegar, sugar, mustard, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and turmeric (if using) until creamy and smooth.

Add the cooked and cooled macaroni into the bowl. Toss gently to coat with the dressing.

Mix in the chopped veggies. If adding relish or pickles, stir those in too.

Cover and refrigerate for at least 1-2 hours (or overnight if you have time). This helps the flavors meld together beautifully.

Before serving, give it a good stir and adjust seasoning with extra salt, pepper, or a splash more plant milk if it looks too thick. Sprinkle with green onions on top if you like!

Pro Tip

Traditional Hawaiian mac salad is slightly sweet, creamy, and has that soft noodle vibe. The combo of vinegar and sugar is what gives it that signature flavor balance. Some recipes even add a little pickle juice to the mix — totally up to you!