MACARONI SALAD WITH BASIL DRESSING

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Macaroni Salad with Basil Dressing image

When my husband and I planned our first garden, we overdid the tomato and zucchini plants. By the end of harvest, I was at my wit's end wondering what else I could do with all those vegetables (sound familiar?). That's when my sister and I came up with this great-tasting salad. Today, even though we have our garden under control, we still make this popular dish.

Provided by Taste of Home

Categories     Lunch

Time 10m

Yield 10 servings.

Number Of Ingredients 10

1 cup loosely packed fresh basil leaves
3 garlic cloves
1/2 teaspoon pepper
1/2 teaspoon salt, optional
2/3 cup olive oil
1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
3 medium tomatoes, seeded and diced
2 to 3 medium zucchini, cut into 1/4-inch slices
7 to 8 ounces elbow macaroni, cooked and drained
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese or part-skim mozzarella cheese

Steps:

  • In a blender container or food processor, combine the basil, garlic, pepper, and salt if desired. Process until finely chopped. Add oil and vinegar; process until well blended. Set aside. In a 4-qt. salad bowl, combine tomatoes, zucchini, macaroni and cheese; toss lightly. Pour dressing over all; toss to coat. Cover and refrigerate at least 2 hours or overnight.

Nutrition Facts :

Mieta Hael
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This is a classic macaroni salad recipe with a delicious twist. The basil dressing really makes it special.


Edith Lekoa
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I love this recipe! It's so easy to make and always turns out delicious.


Edle Lals
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This is a great recipe for a summer cookout. It's easy to make and always a crowd-pleaser.


Dushyant Advani
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I'm not a big fan of mayonnaise, so I used Greek yogurt in the dressing instead. It turned out great!


M Sheraz
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I made this salad for a party and it was a big hit. Everyone loved the basil dressing.


Nani Gopal
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This is a great recipe for a healthy and refreshing side dish. I like to use whole wheat macaroni to make it even healthier.


Salma Ugnda
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I like to add some chopped red onion and bell pepper to this salad for extra crunch and flavor.


biplob Mia
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I've made this salad several times now and it's always a hit with my family and friends.


HINDI HR 321
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This is a great recipe for a potluck or picnic. It's easy to make and travels well.


Sasharacer
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I'm not a huge fan of macaroni salad, but this recipe changed my mind. The basil dressing is amazing and really makes the dish.


Syed Nabeel
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This salad is a great way to use up leftover macaroni. I also like to add some chopped ham or chicken for a protein boost.


Tracy Kimball
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I followed the recipe exactly and it turned out perfectly. I would definitely make this again.


SD Hafijul Islam
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I wasn't sure about the basil dressing at first, but it really grew on me. It's a unique and flavorful twist on a classic macaroni salad.


Kylin Williams
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This is a great recipe for a quick and easy side dish. I like to add some chopped hard-boiled eggs and celery for extra flavor.


Kapila Kumara
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I've made this salad several times now and it's always a crowd-pleaser. The dressing is especially good, with a nice balance of sweet and tangy.


Precious Zimbiri
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I love this recipe! It's so easy to make and always a hit at potlucks.


Mopij Chokidar
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This macaroni salad is a refreshing and delicious side dish, perfect for summer gatherings. The basil dressing is a great way to add flavor without being too heavy.


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