Macaroni With Marinated Tomatoes
A fresh, flavorful pasta dish featuring marinated tomatoes, garlic, herbs, and tender macaroni shells—perfect for warm-weather gatherings or a light, satisfying meal.
Ingredients
- 2 cups chopped tomatoes ⓘ
- 2 green onions with tops, chopped ⓘ
- 2 garlic cloves, finely chopped ⓘ
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley ⓘ
- 2 tablespoons olive or vegetable oil ⓘ
- 2 teaspoons chopped fresh or 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon salt ⓘ
- 1/8 teaspoon coarsely cracked pepper ⓘ
- 1 (7 oz.) package macaroni shells ⓘ
Instructions
- Mix all ingredients, except macaroni shells.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours but no longer than 24 hours.
Tips & Substitutions
For optimal flavor, ensure the tomatoes are ripe and juicy. If fresh basil isn't available, dried basil works well, but reduce the amount to 1/2 teaspoon. Consider adding a splash of balsamic vinegar for extra depth. To make this dish heartier, you could mix in some cooked protein like chicken or chickpeas, making it a fun twist on Mediterranean recipes.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the macaroni with marinated tomatoes as a refreshing main dish or a side. It pairs beautifully with grilled vegetables or a simple green salad. For a complete meal, consider serving it alongside Marinated Lamb Kabobs or a slice of Putpoluk Flat Bread. A sprinkle of feta cheese can also elevate the dish further.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The marinated tomatoes can lose some texture over time, so it's best to consume them fresh. To reheat, warm the macaroni gently on the stove with a splash of water or olive oil to prevent sticking, ensuring it's heated through without becoming mushy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Macaroni With Marinated Tomatoes contains roughly 262 calories, with 14g protein, 37g carbohydrates, and 8g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (84% of the Daily Value), protein (28% of the Daily Value), and iron (28% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2172mg per serving (94% 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 use different types of pasta for this recipe?
Absolutely! While macaroni shells are traditional, you can substitute with any pasta shape you prefer, such as fusilli or penne. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time according to the pasta you choose to achieve the perfect al dente texture.
How can I make this recipe vegan?
This recipe is naturally vegan if you omit any cheese or animal products. The flavors of the marinated tomatoes, garlic, and herbs provide a delicious base that doesn't require any dairy. You can also add nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor without compromising the vegan aspect.
Can I prepare this dish in advance for a gathering?
Yes! You can prepare the marinated tomato mixture up to 24 hours in advance. However, wait to cook the pasta until just before serving to maintain its texture. Combine everything right before serving for the freshest taste, making it perfect for gatherings or potlucks.
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).