Salad Supreme Pasta Salad is a colorful, flavorful, and easy-to-make side dish that’s perfect for barbecues, potlucks, or everyday meals. Featuring tender pasta, crisp vegetables, a zesty Italian dressing, and a generous sprinkle of Salad Supreme seasoning, this dish is a surefire crowd-pleaser.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
You’ll love this Salad Supreme Pasta Salad because it’s fast, fresh, and full of bold flavors. The seasoning blend adds an irresistible kick, and the combination of fresh veggies and pasta creates a vibrant dish that’s just as good the next day. Plus, it’s highly customizable and can be adapted to fit whatever ingredients you have on hand.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- Rotini pasta (or bowtie, penne)
- Cherry tomatoes, halved
- Cucumber, diced
- Red onion, finely chopped
- Green bell pepper, diced
- Black olives, sliced
- McCormick Salad Supreme seasoning
- Italian dressing
- Parmesan cheese, grated (optional)
Directions
- Cook the pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool completely.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, green bell pepper, and black olives.
- Pour the Italian dressing over the salad and toss to coat evenly.
- Sprinkle the Salad Supreme seasoning over the top and toss again to distribute the flavor.
- Add Parmesan cheese if desired and mix gently.
- Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving to let the flavors meld.
Servings and timing
This Salad Supreme Pasta Salad serves about 8-10 people as a side dish.
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 10 minutes
Total time: 25 minutes (plus chilling time if desired)
Variations
- Add diced pepperoni, salami, or grilled chicken for a heartier salad.
- Use different vegetables like shredded carrots, broccoli florets, or zucchini.
- Swap out the Italian dressing for a balsamic vinaigrette for a tangy twist.
- Add cubed mozzarella or crumbled feta for a cheesy upgrade.
- For a spicy version, toss in sliced jalapeños or a pinch of red pepper flakes.
Storage/reheating
Store Salad Supreme Pasta Salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
This salad is meant to be enjoyed cold. If the pasta absorbs the dressing during storage, simply toss with a bit more Italian dressing before serving. Reheating is not recommended.
FAQs
What is Salad Supreme seasoning?
It’s a flavorful spice blend from McCormick containing Romano cheese, sesame seeds, paprika, garlic, and other seasonings.
Can I make Salad Supreme Pasta Salad ahead of time?
Yes, it’s best when made a few hours ahead to let the flavors meld.
What kind of pasta works best?
Rotini, penne, or bowtie pasta all hold the dressing well and work great.
Can I use a different dressing?
Absolutely, try ranch, balsamic vinaigrette, or a homemade Italian dressing.
How do I keep the pasta from sticking together?
Rinse the cooked pasta under cold water and toss with a little dressing right after draining.
Can I make it vegetarian?
Yes, simply omit any meat add-ins and double-check that your dressing is vegetarian.
How long can pasta salad sit out?
It can sit out for about 2 hours; after that, it should be refrigerated.
Can I make my own Salad Supreme seasoning?
Yes, you can replicate it using paprika, sesame seeds, garlic powder, Romano cheese, and a pinch of salt and pepper.
What vegetables can I add?
Broccoli, carrots, zucchini, and even peas make great additions.
Can I freeze Salad Supreme Pasta Salad?
Freezing is not recommended, as the pasta and vegetables can become mushy after thawing.
Conclusion
Salad Supreme Pasta Salad is a vibrant, tasty, and incredibly easy dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Packed with fresh vegetables, flavorful seasoning, and a simple dressing, it’s the ultimate go-to pasta salad recipe that everyone will love. Quick to prepare and endlessly versatile, it’s a dish you’ll return to again and again.
PrintSalad Supreme Pasta Salad
Salad Supreme Pasta Salad is a zesty, colorful side dish made with rotini pasta, fresh vegetables, and McCormick Salad Supreme seasoning. It’s a classic potluck favorite that’s quick to make and full of flavor.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes (plus chilling time)
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Mixing
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
- 1 lb rotini pasta
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup cucumber, diced
- 1/2 cup red bell pepper, diced
- 1/2 cup red onion, diced
- 1/2 cup sliced black olives (optional)
- 1 cup Italian dressing
- 2 tbsp McCormick Salad Supreme seasoning
- 1/2 cup shredded Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the rotini pasta according to package directions. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool.
- In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red bell pepper, red onion, and black olives.
- Pour in the Italian dressing and add the Salad Supreme seasoning. Toss until everything is evenly coated.
- Mix in Parmesan cheese if using.
- Chill in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour before serving to allow flavors to blend.
- Toss again before serving and adjust seasoning if needed.
Notes
- Best served cold and can be made a day ahead.
- Use tri-color rotini for extra color and appeal.
- Add diced salami or pepperoni for a heartier version.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 480mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 5mg