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Caprese Macaroni Salad

Diner-StyleStove-TopVegetarian
Time :20 minutes
Yield :7 servings
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Caprese Macaroni Salad blends Italian freshness with creamy pasta for a comforting dish.
Caprese Macaroni Salad merges classic Italian freshness with creamy, comforting pasta. The cherry tomatoes offer bursts of juicy sweetness, while mozzarella pearls provide a soft, milky counterpoint. Basil adds its signature peppery kick, and a hint of mustard in the dressing keeps things interesting. Perfectly cooked macaroni holds it all together; cool under running water to halt cooking and ensure a firm bite.
Combining freshness with creaminess makes this dish a crowd-pleaser, suited for al fresco dining or casual potlucks. The dressing, with a whisper of sugar and savory notes from Parmesan, wraps each ingredient in a gentle coat. Enjoy scents of fresh herbs and vine-ripened tomatoes, a reminder of late summer in every bite.
Sharing this salad is a multi-sensory experience. The vibrant colors entice before the first taste, encouraging conversation and connection. Easy to prepare and even easier to eat, it's a dish that bridges cultures and palates, delivering comfort through familiar yet thoughtfully layered flavors.

Ingredients

  • 2 cups elbow macaroni uncooked
  • 1 cup mayonnaise
  • 1 tablespoon Italian salad dressing mix
  • 2 teaspoons sugar
  • 3/4 teaspoon ground mustard
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/8 teaspoon pepper
  • 1 pint cherry tomatoes halved
  • 1 cup fresh mozzarella cheese pearls
  • 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves slivered
  • 2 tablespoons parmesan cheese grated

Directions

  • In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the macaroni to al dente, according to the package directions. Drain and rinse with cold water.
  • Allow the macaroni to cool completely.
  • In a small bowl, combine the mayonnaise, the dressing mix, the sugar, the mustard, the salt, and the pepper.
  • In a large bowl, combine the tomatoes, the mozzarella, and the cooled macaroni.
  • Add the dressing to the macaroni mixture and gently toss to coat.
  • Refrigerate the macaroni salad until ready to serve.
  • Before serving, top the salad with the basil and the parmesan.
  • Serve.
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