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As the summer sun beckons us outdoors, there's nothing quite as refreshing as a vibrant, colorful dish that embodies the essence of the tropics. Enter the Tropical Delight Macaroni Salad—a culinary creation that combines the sweetness of pineapple with the savory crunch of fresh vegetables. This dish is perfect for summer gatherings, picnics, or as a delightful side at any meal. It stands out not just for its beautiful presentation but also for its unique flavor profile that balances sweet and savory elements.

Hawaiian Macaroni Salad

Discover the Tropical Delight Macaroni Salad, a vibrant and refreshing dish perfect for summer gatherings. Combining creamy dressing, sweet pineapple, and crunchy fresh vegetables, this salad strikes the ideal balance between sweet and savory flavors. Easy to prepare, it’s great for picnics or as a delightful side at any meal. Enjoy the colorful presentation and the tropical twist that will have everyone asking for the recipe! Perfect for both casual and festive occasions.
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Ingredients
  

8 ounces elbow macaroni

1 cup mayonnaise

1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar

1 tablespoon Dijon mustard

1 tablespoon granulated sugar

1 teaspoon salt

1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

1/2 cup finely diced celery

1/2 cup finely diced carrots

1/2 cup sweet pickle relish

1/4 cup finely chopped red onion

1/2 cup diced ham (optional)

1/2 cup diced pineapple (fresh or canned, drained)

1/4 cup chopped green onions (for garnish)

Instructions
 

Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook according to the package instructions until al dente, typically about 8-10 minutes. Once cooked, drain the macaroni and rinse it under cold water to halt the cooking process. Set aside to cool completely.

    Prepare the Dressing: In a spacious mixing bowl, combine the mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, granulated sugar, salt, and black pepper. Whisk all the ingredients together until the dressing is smooth and well blended.

      Combine Ingredients: To the bowl containing the dressing, add the cooled macaroni, diced celery, diced carrots, sweet pickle relish, chopped red onion, and diced ham (if you choose to include it). Gently stir the mixture until the macaroni and vegetables are evenly coated with the dressing.

        Incorporate the Pineapple: Carefully fold in the diced pineapple, ensuring that the chunks remain intact for added texture and flavor in each bite.

          Chill the Salad: Cover the bowl tightly with plastic wrap or a lid, and place it in the refrigerator. Allow the salad to chill for at least 2 hours, giving the flavors ample time to meld together. For optimal flavor, prepare the salad a day in advance.

            Serve: Just before serving, give the salad a gentle stir and taste it. Adjust the seasoning if necessary. Garnish with the chopped green onions for a pop of color and freshness. Serve the salad chilled for a delightful tropical experience!

              Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 15 mins | 2 hrs 15 mins | 6 servings

                Presentation Tips: For an elegant presentation, serve the salad in a large glass bowl to showcase the vibrant colors, and enhance it further with a sprinkle of additional green onions on top.