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Hawaiian Pasta Salad

Hawaiian Pasta Salad
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Enjoy a bright and refreshing Hawaiian Pasta Salad perfect for summer gatherings! This easy recipe combines tender pasta with juicy fresh pineapple, crisp bell peppers, green onions, shredded carrots, and a creamy tangy dressing. With optional ham for protein and versatile ingredient swaps, this salad brings tropical island flavors to your table in just minutes.

Ingredients

Scale

Pasta and Produce

  • 2 cups cooked elbow macaroni or rotini pasta, cooled
  • 1 cup fresh pineapple chunks
  • 1 cup diced bell peppers (red, yellow, or orange)
  • 3 green onions, sliced
  • 1/2 cup shredded carrots

Dressing

  • 1/2 cup mayonnaise or Greek yogurt
  • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar or lemon juice
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Optional Add-ins

  • 1 cup ham cubes (optional)
  • Toasted macadamia nuts (optional garnish)

Instructions

  1. Cook the pasta: Boil your chosen pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse with cold water to stop cooking and cool the pasta for the salad.
  2. Prepare the produce: Chop fresh pineapple into bite-sized chunks, dice bell peppers, slice green onions, and shred carrots to add crisp texture and vibrant flavors.
  3. Mix the dressing: In a large bowl, combine mayonnaise or Greek yogurt with apple cider vinegar or lemon juice. Season with salt and pepper and whisk until smooth and creamy.
  4. Combine everything: Add the cooled pasta and chopped ingredients to the bowl with the dressing. Toss gently but thoroughly until everything is evenly coated.
  5. Chill and serve: Refrigerate the Hawaiian Pasta Salad for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors meld before serving.

Notes

  • Use cold pasta by rinsing after cooking to prevent mushiness.
  • Fresh ingredients elevate the salad’s taste and texture.
  • Balance sweetness and tang by adjusting vinegar or lemon juice to taste.
  • Chilling the salad intensifies flavors.
  • Optional garnishes like toasted macadamia nuts or chopped cilantro add island flair.
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days; stir gently before serving.
  • Freezing is not recommended as the texture will be affected.
  • Serve chilled or at room temperature; reheating is not necessary.

Nutrition

Keywords: Hawaiian pasta salad, tropical pasta salad, summer salad, pineapple pasta salad, easy pasta salad, gluten free pasta salad

Find it online: https://linacorner.com/hawaiian-pasta-salad/