Step up your picnic game! Level up your macaroni salad! But how?! Are you ready for it?! Caprese Macaroni Salad! This Italian take on an American classic is just what you need to impress everyone at your next outdoor food gathering… including your tastebuds! Stick a fork in this tender elbow macaroni mixed with a creamy and tangy sauce and, of course, the iconic pairing of rich mozzarella, herby basil, and juicy tomatoes, and you’ll be oh, so amazed! Get ready to invite the whole neighborhood over… or maybe you’ll just want to keep this Caprese Macaroni Salad to yourself. Either way, you’re going to have a delicious bash!
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
Step 1 –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.
Step 2 –Allow the macaroni to cool completely.
Step 3 –In a small bowl, combine the mayonnaise, the dressing mix, the sugar, the mustard, the salt, and the pepper.
Step 4 –In a large bowl, combine the tomatoes, the mozzarella, and the cooled macaroni.
Step 5 –Add the dressing to the macaroni mixture and gently toss to coat.
Step 6 –Refrigerate the macaroni salad until ready to serve.
Step 7 –Before serving, top the salad with the basil and the parmesan.
Step 8 –Serve.