Go Back
–+ servings
Hawaiian Pasta Salad

Hawaiian Pasta Salad: A Tropical Twist for Summer Gatherings

This Hawaiian Pasta Salad combines colorful vegetables, juicy pineapple, and optional protein for a quick and delightful dish that's perfect for summer gatherings.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Chilling Time 30 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Salads
Cuisine: Hawaiian
Calories: 350
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta
  • 2 cups Elbow Macaroni Substitute with any pasta shape like rotini or fusilli.
For the Salad
  • 1 cup Diced Pineapple Fresh or canned, drain canned before use.
  • 1 cup Bell Pepper (Red or Yellow) Any sweet variety can be swapped.
  • 1 cup Cherry Tomatoes Substitute with grape or diced regular tomatoes.
  • 1/2 cup Finely Chopped Red Onion Can replace with green onions.
  • 1 cup Peas (Fresh or Frozen) Frozen peas can be used without cooking.
  • 1 cup Shredded Carrots Chopped cucumbers can offer a similar texture.
For the Protein (Optional)
  • 1 cup Cooked and Diced Ham or Chicken Omit for vegetarian option or substitute with tofu.
For the Dressing
  • 1 cup Mayonnaise Substitute with Greek yogurt for lighter fare.
  • 2 tbsp Apple Cider Vinegar White wine vinegar serves as a good alternative.
  • 2 tbsp Soy Sauce Low-sodium option is great.
  • 1 tsp Garlic Powder Fresh minced garlic for stronger flavor.
  • to taste Salt & Black Pepper Adjust to taste.
For Garnish
  • 1/4 cup Fresh Parsley Can replace with other fresh herbs if desired.

Equipment

  • Large pot
  • Colander
  • Mixing bowl
  • spatula

Method
 

Cooking Instructions
  1. Step 1: Cook the Pasta - Boil salted water, add elbow macaroni, cook 7-9 minutes until al dente, drain and rinse under cold water.
  2. Step 2: Prepare Vegetables - Dice bell pepper and fresh pineapple, halve cherry tomatoes, chop red onion, shred carrots.
  3. Step 3: Combine Ingredients - In a large bowl, add cooled pasta, chopped vegetables, and optional ham or chicken, then gently toss.
  4. Step 4: Make Dressing - Whisk together mayonnaise, vinegar, soy sauce, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until smooth.
  5. Step 5: Mix Everything - Pour dressing over pasta and vegetable mixture, fold gently to coat evenly.
  6. Step 6: Chill the Salad - Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to meld flavors.
  7. Step 7: Garnish and Serve - Stir salad, garnish with parsley or herbs, and serve.

Nutrition

Serving: 1cupCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 10gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 2gCholesterol: 20mgSodium: 500mgPotassium: 150mgFiber: 3gSugar: 6gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 25mgCalcium: 50mgIron: 1mg

Notes

Allow at least 30 minutes chill time for flavors to meld. For better texture, do not overcook the pasta.

Tried this recipe?

Let us know how it was!