Macaroni Salad with Basil Dressing
Prepare yourself for a tantalizing journey into the world of flavor with this delightful Macaroni Salad with Basil Dressing recipe! 🍽️ This refreshing dish is perfect for those warm European summers when you’re craving something light, yet satisfying. With a preparation time of just 25 minutes, you’ll have this culinary masterpiece ready in no time, leaving you more moments to savor its deliciousness with family and friends.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup fresh basil leaves 🌿
- 3 cloves of garlic 🧄
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 2/3 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup olive oil
- 1/3 cup red wine vinegar
- 3 tomatoes, diced 🍅
- 3 zucchinis, sliced
- 8 ounces elbow macaroni
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese 🧀
Nutritional Information:
- Calories: 328.5 per serving
- Fat Content: 22.6 grams
- Saturated Fat Content: 6.9 grams
- Cholesterol Content: 23.7 milligrams
- Sodium Content: 265.4 milligrams
- Carbohydrate Content: 22.2 grams
- Fiber Content: 1.9 grams
- Sugar Content: 3.2 grams
- Protein Content: 10 grams
Instructions:
| Step | Details |
|---|---|
| 1 | Add basil, garlic, pepper, and salt into the container of an electric blender. |
| 2 | Process until the ingredients are finely chopped. |
| 3 | Add olive oil and red wine vinegar; process until well blended; set aside. |
| 4 | In a large bowl, combine diced tomatoes, sliced zucchinis, cooked elbow macaroni, and shredded cheddar cheese; toss gently. |
| 5 | Pour the prepared basil dressing over the salad mixture; toss to coat evenly. |
| 6 | Cover the bowl and refrigerate the salad for at least 2 hours or overnight to allow the flavors to meld together. |
Serving Suggestions:
Once chilled, serve this vibrant Macaroni Salad with Basil Dressing as a delightful side dish to accompany grilled meats or as a standalone meal for a light lunch. The fresh basil dressing infuses each bite with a burst of herbaceous goodness, while the combination of tomatoes, zucchini, and cheddar cheese adds both texture and depth to the dish.
This recipe yields approximately 10 servings, making it ideal for gatherings, picnics, or simply stocking up your refrigerator for quick and satisfying meals throughout the week. Plus, with its low preparation time, you’ll find yourself coming back to this recipe time and time again, especially during those warm summer months when fresh produce is in abundance.
Indulge your taste buds and treat yourself to the vibrant flavors of this Macaroni Salad with Basil Dressing – a true celebration of European-inspired cuisine that’s perfect for any occasion! 🎉
