Macaroni Salad With Basil Dressing
A fresh, flavorful macaroni salad featuring a vibrant basil dressing, ripe tomatoes, zucchini, and melted cheese—perfect for summer gatherings and light lunches.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a blender or food processor, combine basil, garlic, pepper, and salt.
- Process until finely chopped.
- Add olive oil and red wine vinegar.
- Process until well blended.
- Set aside.
- In a 4-quart salad bowl, combine cooked and drained macaroni, diced tomatoes, zucchini slices, and shredded cheese.
- Toss lightly to mix.
- Pour the basil dressing over the salad and toss to coat evenly.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a dollop of Greek yogurt or sour cream to the salad. Fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro can also enhance the flavor profile. If you're short on time, store-bought pesto can be used as a quick substitute for the basil dressing. You can use any pasta shape if elbow macaroni isn't available.
Serving Suggestions
Macaroni salad makes a delightful side dish for barbecues, picnics, or potlucks. It pairs beautifully with grilled meats or sandwiches. For a complete meal, serve it alongside a fresh green salad or as part of a buffet spread featuring other American recipes like Fourth Of July Flag Brownies.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors will continue to develop as it sits. If the salad appears dry after refrigeration, you can add a splash of olive oil or a bit of vinegar to refresh the dressing before serving.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Macaroni Salad With Basil Dressing contains roughly 763 calories, with 6g protein, 10g carbohydrates, and 79g fat. It is a good source of protein (12% of the Daily Value) and calcium (10% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 917mg per serving (40% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make macaroni salad ahead of time?
Absolutely! In fact, making it a day in advance allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Just cover it tightly and store it in the refrigerator. Give it a gentle stir and check the seasoning before serving.
What can I substitute for the cheese?
If you're looking for a dairy-free option, try using a vegan cheese or simply omit it for a lighter dish. Nutritional yeast can also add a cheesy flavor without the dairy.
Can I add other vegetables to the salad?
Yes, feel free to get creative! Bell peppers, cucumbers, or even peas can add color and crunch. Just make sure to chop them small for even distribution throughout the salad.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).