Hawaiian Pasta Salad is a delightful and refreshing dish that combines tropical flavors with the comfort of pasta. It’s the perfect dish for picnics, potlucks, or as a side for grilled meats. The sweetness of pineapple, the savory ham, and the creamy dressing all come together to create a balance of flavors that’s sure to impress. The addition of Greek yogurt in the dressing gives it a slight tang, while the pineapple juice adds a natural sweetness that elevates the entire salad. The crunchy carrots and green onions provide texture, while the elbow macaroni brings everything together in a satisfying way. Easy to prepare and full of vibrant flavors, this salad makes a fantastic addition to any meal or event.

Whether you’re looking for a light lunch, a tasty side dish, or something to bring to a family gathering, this Hawaiian Pasta Salad is a versatile and crowd-pleasing choice. Plus, it’s simple to customize—add extra veggies or substitute the ham with chicken if you prefer. Ready in just 20 minutes, this salad will quickly become a favorite in your recipe collection.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Tropical Flavor Explosion

The sweetness of pineapple pairs beautifully with the savory ham for a unique flavor combination.

2. Creamy and Tangy Dressing

The pineapple juice and Greek yogurt give the dressing a perfect balance of creaminess and tang.

3. Perfect for Picnics or Potlucks

Easy to make ahead and transport, it’s an ideal dish to bring to gatherings or outdoor events.

4. Customizable

You can adjust the ingredients based on what you have on hand—substitute chicken for ham or add extra vegetables.

5. Quick and Simple

This recipe comes together in just 20 minutes, making it a perfect choice for busy days.

Ingredients

For the Salad:

Elbow macaroni
Pineapple chunks (drained, reserve 1/2 cup liquid for dressing)
Cubed cooked ham
Shredded carrot
Green onions

For the Dressing:

Pineapple juice (reserved from the salad)
Light mayonnaise
Greek yogurt
Apple cider vinegar
Sugar
Salt and pepper

Variations

Add Chicken: Swap the ham for grilled or rotisserie chicken for a more substantial salad.
Use Different Pasta: Try a different pasta shape like rotini, shells, or penne for a fun twist.
Add Veggies: Bell peppers, cucumbers, or celery can be added for extra crunch and color.
Use Full-Fat Mayo: If you prefer a richer dressing, use full-fat mayonnaise instead of light mayo.
Make it Vegan: Substitute the mayonnaise and Greek yogurt with plant-based versions and use vegan ham or omit it entirely.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Prepare the elbow macaroni according to package directions. Once done, drain and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process. Set aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Salad Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, drained pineapple chunks, cubed ham, shredded carrot, and green onions.

Step 3: Make the Dressing

In a separate bowl, whisk together the reserved pineapple juice, mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, apple cider vinegar, sugar, salt, and pepper until smooth.

Step 4: Toss Everything Together

Pour the dressing over the pasta salad mixture and toss gently until everything is well-coated.

Step 5: Chill and Serve

Cover the salad and refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving to allow the flavors to meld.

Tips for Making the Recipe

Rinse the Pasta: Rinsing the pasta with cold water helps prevent it from sticking together and allows it to cool quickly for the salad.
Balance the Sweetness: Adjust the sugar in the dressing if you prefer a sweeter or more tangy flavor.
Make Ahead: This salad tastes even better the next day as the flavors have time to marinate.
Use Fresh Pineapple: If you have fresh pineapple on hand, you can use it in place of canned for a more vibrant flavor.
Chill Before Serving: Allowing the salad to chill enhances the flavor and texture.

How to Serve

Serve it chilled as a side dish for grilled chicken, ribs, or burgers.
Add it to your picnic spread alongside other fresh salads or sandwiches.
It’s great as a light lunch on its own, especially with some extra veggies added.
Use it as a topping for a grilled chicken or turkey wrap for a flavorful twist.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Freezing

Not recommended for freezing, as the texture of the pasta and vegetables may change upon thawing.

Reheating

This salad is best served cold, so no reheating necessary. Simply chill before serving again.

FAQs

1. Can I use other pasta shapes?

Yes, you can use rotini, penne, or any pasta shape you prefer.

2. How long should I chill the salad?

Chill for at least 1 hour, but it can be made ahead and stored overnight for best results.

3. Can I make this salad dairy-free?

Yes, swap the Greek yogurt and mayonnaise for plant-based alternatives.

4. Can I add other fruits to the salad?

Yes, diced mango or even shredded coconut would complement the tropical flavors nicely.

5. How do I make the dressing thicker?

If you prefer a thicker dressing, reduce the amount of pineapple juice or add more yogurt.

6. Can I add more veggies?

Absolutely! Try adding diced bell peppers, peas, or cucumbers for extra crunch.

7. Can I use a different vinegar?

Apple cider vinegar is best, but white vinegar can be used in a pinch.

8. Is this recipe gluten-free?

Use gluten-free elbow macaroni to make the salad completely gluten-free.

9. How can I make the salad spicier?

Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or some finely chopped jalapeños to the dressing for heat.

10. Can I make this salad the night before?

Yes, this salad keeps well in the fridge and even tastes better after the flavors have melded overnight.

Conclusion

Hawaiian Pasta Salad is a perfect mix of creamy, tangy, and sweet flavors with a refreshing crunch. It’s an easy-to-make, crowd-pleasing dish that works as a side at any summer event, BBQ, or family dinner. The tropical twist of pineapple combined with savory ham and the creamy dressing creates a salad that’s full of flavor and texture. Whether you’re serving it for a special occasion or as a simple weeknight meal, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection.