Home Town Drive-In Pasta Salad

Ingredients and Weight:

1. Penne pasta - 400 grams
2. Ground beef - 300 grams
3. Diced tomatoes - 1 cup
4. Shredded lettuce - 1 cup
5. Shredded carrots - 1/2 cup
6. Shredded cucumber - 1/2 cup
7. Mayonnaise - 1/2 cup
8. Italian seasoning - 1 tablespoon
9. Salt and pepper - to taste

Preparation Time:

• Preparation Time: 30 minutes
• Cooking Time: 20 minutes

Difficulty Level: Level 3 (Moderate)

Preparation Method Steps:

1. Boil the penne pasta according to package instructions until tender. Drain and let cool.
2. In a separate pan, cook the ground beef until browned and cooked through. Drain excess fat and set aside.
3. In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, ground beef, diced tomatoes, shredded lettuce, shredded carrots, and shredded cucumber.
4. Add the mayonnaise and Italian seasoning, and mix well to combine all the ingredients.
5. Season with salt and pepper as desired.
6. Serve immediately or chill in the refrigerator for later.

Nutritional Information: (Based on average values; please adjust according to actual ingredients used)

• Calories: Approx. 600 calories per serving (assuming 8 servings)
• Fat: 35g
• Carbohydrates: 65g
• Protein: 25g

Dish Characteristics:

• This pasta salad is a combination of hearty pasta, ground beef, and fresh vegetables, providing a satisfying and flavorful meal.
• The use of mayonnaise gives the salad a creamy and rich texture, while the Italian seasoning adds a touch of flavor.
• It's a great dish for summer picnics or casual gatherings.

User Comments:

1. "This pasta salad is a family favorite! The combination of flavors is perfect."
2. "I love the addition of ground beef in this salad, it makes it more hearty and satisfying."
3. "This is a great dish to make ahead of time, it tastes even better after being chilled in the refrigerator."

Special Precautions and Tips:

• Be sure to cook the ground beef thoroughly to ensure safety.
• Adjust the seasoning according to your taste preference.
• If you want to add more vegetables, feel free to experiment with different options like olives, bell peppers, or celery.