The Rainbow Drive-In Hawaiian mac salad recipe is more than just a side dish – it’s a classic part of Hawaii’s comfort food culture.
Even though it didn’t start in the islands, it quickly became a local favorite.
Some people say plantation cooks brought it to Hawaii, while others believe hotel chefs in Waikiki made it popular.
No matter how it began, this creamy salad has earned its place on almost every plate lunch across the islands.
My love for it started at Rainbow Drive-In, the famous spot known for generous portions at friendly prices.
Every meal came with two scoops of rice and a creamy macaroni salad that balanced everything perfectly. It was delicious, simple, and satisfying.
For a long time, it was the side I looked forward to most – smooth noodles coated in rich, tangy mayo with just the right seasoning.
Now, I’m sharing how to make this Copycat Rainbow Drive-In Hawaiian mac salad Recipe at home – easy, creamy, and full of island flavor.
What Is the Difference Between Hawaiian Mac Salad and Mac Salad?
The main difference between Hawaiian mac salad and regular mac salad is in the texture and flavor.
Traditional mac salad tends to have firm pasta and light dressing, while the Rainbow Drive-In Hawaiian mac salad recipe uses overcooked macaroni and a rich, creamy mayo base.
The noodles are intentionally cooked longer so they soak up the dressing better.
Hawaiian versions often use Best Foods mayo, a touch of salt, pepper, and sometimes a bit of vinegar or grated onion for extra depth.
It’s simpler than most mainland recipes, but the taste is unforgettable – smooth, hearty, and perfectly balanced.
Rainbow Drive-In Hawaiian Mac Salad Ingredients
- Elbow Macaroni (½ Pound): The base of this dish. Overcooking the macaroni is the key to getting that soft, creamy texture found in Hawaiian-style mac salad. Regular elbow pasta works best, but shells or rotini can be used in a pinch.
- Best Foods Mayonnaise (3 Cups): This is the secret ingredient that makes the dressing smooth and rich. Other brands tend to be tangier, but Best Foods gives that signature island flavor. Hellmann’s can be used as a substitute if needed.
- Salt (½ Tablespoon): Enhances the flavor of the pasta and dressing. Sea salt or kosher salt both work fine.
- Garlic Powder (½ Tablespoon): Adds a subtle flavor that blends perfectly with the mayo. Fresh minced garlic can be used, but use a smaller amount to avoid overpowering the salad.
- Black Pepper (½ Tablespoon): Adds a mild spice and balance. Freshly ground pepper gives a more robust flavor, but any kind works.
Essential Kitchen Equipment
- Large Pot – For boiling macaroni.
- Strainer – To drain pasta easily.
- Mixing Bowl – To combine all ingredients.
- Wooden Spoon – For gentle stirring.
- Measuring Cups & Spoons – For accuracy.
- Plastic Wrap or Lid – To cover and chill the salad.
How To Make Rainbow Drive-In Hawaiian Mac Salad
Step1 | Cook the macaroni
Fill a large pot about 3/4 full with water. Add a generous amount of salt and bring it to a rolling boil. Add the elbow macaroni to the boiling water.
Step2 | Overcook the pasta
Instead of cooking the pasta until it’s firm (al dente), you will cook it for much longer. Let it boil for about 20–25 minutes, until the macaroni is very soft and tender. This prevents the salad from drying out later.
Step3 | Cool down the macaroni
Drain the soft macaroni in a colander and run cold water over it to stop the cooking process. Let it drain completely until it’s cool to the touch.
Step4 | Combine the ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, add the cooled macaroni. Add the 3 cups of Best Foods mayonnaise, salt, garlic powder, and black pepper.
Step5 | Mix gently
Stir everything together until the macaroni is evenly coated in the seasoned mayonnaise.
Step6 | Chill before serving
For the best flavor, cover the bowl and place it in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours, or better yet, overnight. This allows the flavors to blend and the texture to become perfect.
Step7 | Serve
Stir again before serving. It should be smooth, slightly cool – perfect for plate lunches.
Tips for Making Restaurant-Style Hawaiian Mac Salad
- Rinse Well: After draining, rinse the macaroni under cold water – twice if needed – to remove extra starch and stop the cooking completely. This prevents gumminess.
- Stir Before Serving: After chilling, stir the salad well. If it seems a little dry, add a small spoonful of mayonnaise to bring back the creamy texture.
- Taste and Adjust: Before serving, taste and adjust the salt or pepper as needed. The flavors will have developed and intensified during chilling.
What to Serve with Rainbow Drive-In Hawaiian Mac Salad
This creamy salad fits perfectly on a classic Hawaiian plate lunch. Rainbow Drive-In usually serves it with two scoops of rice and your choice of meat – like loco moco, barbecue beef, or fried chicken.
At home, it pairs well with grilled ribs, teriyaki chicken, or even fried fish. The smooth, mild flavor balances rich and smoky dishes.
It’s also great with simple meals like sandwiches or burgers. Add a scoop next to your main dish, and you’ll see why this salad is loved all over Hawaii.
Make-Ahead and Storage
Make-Ahead: Prep this salad up to a day early for peak taste. Mix the ingredients, cover tightly, and pop it in the fridge.
The extra time lets the mayo and spices soak into the pasta, making it creamier. Just stir before serving to freshen it up.
How to Store: Keep the salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh and delicious for up to 4-5 days.
Because it contains mayonnaise, you should not leave it out at room temperature for more than two hours. This salad does not freeze well, as the mayonnaise will separate and become watery when thawed.
Rainbow Drive-In Hawaiian Mac Salad Recipe FAQs
1. Can I add veggies or other mix-ins?
Yes, but keep it light to stay true to the classic style. Grated carrots or onions add subtle crunch without overwhelming the creaminess. Avoid heavy items like cheese or eggs, as they shift it toward mainland mac salad.
Start with small amounts and taste as you go. This keeps the focus on the pasta and mayo duo that’s key to Hawaiian plates.
2. What if the salad seems too dry after chilling?
Stir in extra mayo a tablespoon at a time until creamy again. Over time, pasta can pull in moisture, but this fix revives it quick. Don’t add liquids like milk, as they thin it out wrong.
Taste after each addition to avoid overdoing. Proper overcooking upfront helps prevent this issue from the start.
3. Does this recipe scale up for a crowd?
Yes, double or triple easy – use 1 pound pasta for four times mayo and spices. Boil in a bigger pot to avoid overflow. Mix in batches if your bowl’s small. It serves 8-10 as a side from one double.
Chill longer for big flavors in the Rainbow Drive-In Hawaiian mac salad recipe. Portion into containers for transport; stays cool in ice packs.
Rainbow Drive-In Hawaiian Mac Salad Recipe
Make this creamy Rainbow Drive-In Hawaiian Mac Salad in 40 minutes - soft noodles, rich mayo, and true island flavor in every bite.
Ingredients
- Elbow Macaroni – ½ pound (about 2 cups uncooked)
- Best Foods Mayonnaise – 3 cups
- Salt – ½ tablespoon
- Garlic Powder – ½ tablespoon
- Black Pepper – ½ tablespoon
- (Optional: 1–2 teaspoons apple cider vinegar or 2 tablespoons grated onion for extra depth)
Instructions
- Fill a large pot about 3/4 full with water. Add a generous amount of salt and bring it to a rolling boil. Add the elbow macaroni to the boiling water.
- Instead of cooking the pasta until it's firm (al dente), you will cook it for much longer. Let it boil for about 20–25 minutes, until the macaroni is very soft and tender. This prevents the salad from drying out later.
- Drain the soft macaroni in a colander and run cold water over it to stop the cooking process. Let it drain completely until it's cool to the touch.
- In a large mixing bowl, add the cooled macaroni. Add the 3 cups of Best Foods mayonnaise, salt, garlic powder, and black pepper.
- Stir everything together until the macaroni is completely coated in the creamy, seasoned mayonnaise.
- For the best flavor, cover the bowl and place it in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours, or better yet, overnight. This allows the flavors to blend and the texture to become perfect.
- Stir again before serving. It should be creamy, smooth, and slightly cool - perfect for plate lunches.
Nutrition Information:
Serving Size: Amount (per serving)Amount Per Serving: Calories: 480Total Fat: 40gSaturated Fat: 6gCholesterol: 30mgSodium: 420mgCarbohydrates: 25gFiber: 1gSugar: 2gProtein: 4g
The Rainbow Drive-In Hawaiian mac salad recipe is all about comfort and simplicity. It’s creamy, rich, and full of that local island flavor that makes any meal feel special.
It’s the easy side that ties everything together – simple joys like this make days brighter.
