Mom's Hawaiian Mac Salad (Macaroni Salad)

Step 1

Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Once boiling, generously salt the water. Add in the pasta and cook to al dente, according to package directions. Drain the pasta, rinsing with cold water, and set aside.

Step 2

Add cooled elbows to a large mixing bowl with the grated carrot, mayonnaise, sugar, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, turmeric, & cayenne (if using). Season with 1 teaspoon kosher salt & ground black pepper, as desired. Stir to combine, seasoning with additional spices &/or salt as needed.

Step 3

, garnished with finely sliced green onions or chives as desired. In Hawaii, mac salad is often served plate lunch-style, alongside rice with local favorites like shoyu chicken, kalua pig, teriyaki beef, kalbi, etc. Enjoy!