Ingredients and Weight:
- Macaroni pasta - 300g
- Cheddar cheese - 200g (grated)
- Red onion - 1 (chopped)
- Cherry tomatoes - 1 cup (halved)
- Mayonnaise - 1 cup
- Salt and pepper - to taste
- Fresh basil - 1 small bunch (chopped for garnish)
Preparation Time:
- Preparation: 20 minutes
- Cooking: 15 minutes
- Total: 35 minutes
Difficulty Level:
[Level 3] - Moderate. Requires attention to cooking pasta and seasoning the salad correctly.
Preparation Method Steps:
- Prepare the macaroni pasta according to the package instructions and drain well.
- In a large bowl, combine the cooked macaroni, chopped red onion, and halved cherry tomatoes.
- Add the grated cheddar cheese and mix gently.
- Pour the mayonnaise over the salad and season with salt and pepper as per taste preference.
- Toss gently to combine all the ingredients.
- Garnish with chopped fresh basil.
- Serve chilled.
Nutritional Information: (per serving, assuming 8 total servings)
- Calories: ~450kcal
- Fat: ~32g
- Carbohydrates: ~35g
- Protein: ~15g
- Fiber: ~3g
Dish Characteristics:
- Creamy and rich due to the combination of macaroni and cheddar cheese.
- Ideal as a side dish or a light meal with fresh tomato and basil flavors.
- Versatile dish that can be customized with different toppings or flavors as per preference.
User Comments:
- "This is a great dish for a summer barbecue! The combination of macaroni and cheddar is so creamy and delicious."
- "I love how easy this salad is to make yet so flavorful. The addition of fresh basil makes it special."
- "Great as a side dish for grilled meats or poultry."
- "I added some cooked bacon bits for a richer flavor profile, turned out great!"
- "A classic American dish that never gets old."
Special Precautions and Tips:
- Ensure to cook the macaroni pasta well but not overcooked to maintain its texture.
- Adjust the seasoning according to taste preference.
- For a richer flavor, you can add cooked cubed ham or cooked bacon bits to the salad.
