Why This Salad Supreme Pasta Salad Is a Must-Try

If you’ve been searching for a reliable, simple, and budget-friendly cold pasta salad recipe, your quest ends here. Our Salad Supreme Pasta Salad stands out with its exceptionally rich and delicious flavor, primarily thanks to the magic of McCormick Salad Supreme seasoning and a good zesty Italian dressing. It’s more than just a side dish; it’s a culinary staple that delivers on taste and convenience.

While many associate vibrant pasta salad recipes with the warmth of summer and outdoor gatherings like parties and barbecues, this supreme pasta salad defies seasonal boundaries. Its robust flavor profile and hearty ingredients make it equally suitable for a cozy winter dinner table, complementing heartier meals beautifully. It’s a versatile dish that brings a burst of freshness and flavor to any season.

Like many pasta side dishes, this recipe is a universal crowd-pleaser. Its inviting flavors and appealing textures are so captivating that even the most discerning or picky eaters often find it hard to resist, despite the generous inclusion of fresh, healthy vegetables. We are confident your family will cherish this fun and flavorful recipe as much as ours does. It truly is the best way to enjoy a classic pasta salad!

How to Make Salad Supreme Pasta Salad: A Step-by-Step Guide

Creating this delightful pasta salad with Salad Supreme seasoning is incredibly straightforward. Follow these detailed steps to ensure a perfect batch every time:

1. Cook Your Pasta to Al Dente Perfection

   Begin by cooking your chosen pasta (rotini or cavatappi work wonderfully) according to the package directions until it reaches an al dente texture. This means it should be firm to the bite, not mushy. Overcooked pasta can lead to a soggy salad, so timing is key! Once cooked, drain the pasta thoroughly and allow it to cool completely. It’s crucial not to rinse the pasta, as this washes away the starches that help the dressing cling to it, retaining maximum flavor. If you notice the pasta sticking together as it cools, you can drizzle about half of the Italian dressing over it and toss gently.

2. Prepare Your Fresh Vegetables and Cheese

   While your pasta is cooking and cooling, take this time to prepare all your fresh ingredients. Quarter the zucchini and slice it thinly for even distribution. Halve the grape tomatoes and small mozzarella balls. Dice the orange bell pepper and red onion into small, uniform pieces. This careful preparation ensures every bite of your pasta salad is packed with flavor and texture. Consistency in cutting also helps the ingredients meld together beautifully.

3. Combine All Ingredients for a Burst of Flavor

   In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta, thinly sliced zucchini, drained corn (if using canned, ensure it’s well-drained; frozen corn can also be used and thawed), halved mozzarella balls, diced orange bell pepper, halved grape tomatoes, diced red onion, and the star ingredient: McCormick Salad Supreme seasoning. Gently stir all these vibrant components together until they are evenly distributed. Next, pour in the remaining Italian dressing and stir again, ensuring every piece of pasta and vegetable is coated in the zesty dressing.

4. Garnish and Serve

   For an extra touch of freshness and visual appeal, sprinkle your finished pasta salad with fresh parsley or basil, if desired. This adds a wonderful aromatic note. This versatile pasta salad can be served chilled or at room temperature, depending on your preference. If serving at room temperature, remember to adhere to food safety guidelines and do not leave it out for longer than two hours to maintain its freshness and quality.

Essential Ingredients for Your Salad Supreme Pasta Salad

To create this irresistible Salad Supreme Pasta Salad, you’ll need a simple yet flavorful array of ingredients. Here’s your comprehensive shopping list:

• 1 lb. Rotini or Cavatappi Pasta (dry): These curly pasta shapes are perfect for trapping the dressing and small vegetable pieces, ensuring every bite is flavorful.
• 1 cup Thinly Sliced Zucchini: Adds a fresh, mild crunch and vibrant green color.
• 8 Ounce Can Corn, Drained (about 1 cup): Provides a touch of sweetness and a contrasting texture. Frozen corn, thawed, can also be used.
• 6 Ounces Small Mozzarella Balls: Offers creamy pockets of mild, milky flavor that complement the zesty dressing beautifully.
• 1 Diced Orange Bell Pepper: Contributes a sweet, crisp element and a bright, cheerful color.
• 1 cup Halved Grape Tomatoes: Burst with juicy freshness and add a slight tang.
• 1/3 cup Diced Red Onion: Delivers a sharp, pungent kick that balances the other flavors.
• 1 cup Italian Dressing: The foundational liquid that binds all the flavors. Using a light Italian dressing can help manage calorie content without sacrificing flavor.
• ¼ cup McCormick Salad Supreme Seasoning: The “secret ingredient” that infuses the salad with its signature tangy, cheesy, and slightly earthy flavor.
• Fresh Parsley or Fresh Basil for Garnish (optional): Adds a beautiful finish and an aromatic touch.

This recipe calls for a variety of colorful vegetables, chosen not just for their taste but also for their visual appeal and nutritional value. However, if you have a preference or dietary restriction, don’t hesitate to swap them out! We have plenty of suggestions for pasta salad variations further down. For a complete, printable recipe card with exact measurements, please refer to the bottom of this article.

Essential Kitchen Equipment

To make this pasta salad, you’ll need a few basic kitchen tools:

• Large Pasta Pot: For boiling the pasta efficiently.
• Colander: To drain the cooked pasta.
• Large Mixing Bowl: Essential for combining all the ingredients easily without spilling.
• A Good Knife and Cutting Board: For precise and safe vegetable preparation.

Customizing Your Pasta Salad: Delicious Substitutions and Variations

This supreme pasta salad recipe is designed to be a fantastic side dish, but its versatility means it can easily be adapted to suit your needs and preferences. Don’t be afraid to experiment!

Transforming It into a Main Course

To elevate this side dish into a satisfying main course, simply incorporate a good source of protein. Consider adding:

• Grilled Chicken or Turkey: Sliced or diced, these lean proteins are perfect.
• Shrimp: Cooked and chilled shrimp adds a delightful seafood element.
• Vegetarian Protein Pasta: Substitute regular wheat pasta with options like Banza chickpea pasta for an instant protein boost, making it a complete vegetarian meal.
• Canned Tuna or Salmon: Flaked and mixed in for a quick, protein-rich addition.
• Hard-Boiled Eggs: Chopped eggs add creaminess and protein.

Choosing Your Pasta

While rotini and cavatappi are excellent choices due to their ability to capture dressing and small ingredients, many pasta shapes work well. We generally prefer more compact pastas like penne, fusilli, or macaroni for pasta salads. However, if you’re in the mood for something different, a linguine or spaghetti pasta salad can also be delicious, though it might require a bit more careful tossing. For a visually stunning dish, opt for tricolor pasta with Salad Supreme seasoning – it instantly creates a festive, rainbow pasta salad!

Expanding Your Veggie Palette and Other Additions

The beauty of pasta salad lies in its adaptability. Here are some other fantastic ingredients to include if you wish to mix things up and add even more flavor, texture, and nutrition:

Savory Meats & Proteins:

• Pepperoni (mini or diced)
• Salami (diced)
• Cooked Ham (cubed)

Fresh Vegetables & Herbs:

• Black Olives (sliced)
• Cucumbers (diced or sliced)
• Carrots (shredded or finely diced)
• Celery (finely diced for crunch)
• Fresh Broccoli Florets (small, blanched if preferred)
• Cauliflower (small florets, blanched if preferred)
• Roasted Red Pepper (jarred, drained, and diced)
• Green Bell Pepper Strips
• Yellow Bell Pepper (diced)
• Artichoke Hearts (canned or jarred, drained and chopped)
• Asparagus (blanched and cut)
• Red Cabbage (finely shredded)

Cheesy Delights:

• Cheddar Cheese (cubed or shredded)
• Parmesan Cheese (shredded or grated)
• Romano Cheese (shredded)
• Feta Cheese (crumbled)

Other Flavor Boosters:

• Sun-Dried Tomatoes (chopped)
• Capers (drained)
• Red Wine Vinegar (a splash for extra tang)
• Fresh Lemon Juice (brightens flavors)

Feel free to mix and match these additions based on your preferences or what you have on hand. Each addition can bring a new dimension to your Salad Supreme Pasta Salad!

Perfect Pairings: What Goes with Salad Supreme Pasta Salad?

This versatile pasta salad makes an excellent accompaniment to a wide variety of main dishes. Its fresh, zesty flavor complements both hearty and lighter fare beautifully. Here are some ideas for what to serve alongside your Salad Supreme Pasta Salad:

• Air Fryer BBQ Chicken Breast: The smoky-sweet notes of BBQ chicken are a perfect match for the tangy pasta salad.
• Baked Riblets Recipe: A succulent, savory meat dish that balances the freshness of the salad.
• Costco Sandwiches: Ideal for a casual lunch or picnic, the pasta salad makes a great side to hearty deli sandwiches.
• Smoked Burgers: The smoky richness of burgers is wonderfully cut by the bright, zesty flavors of the pasta salad.
• Grilled Sausages or Hot Dogs: Classic BBQ staples that pair effortlessly with a cool pasta salad.
• Pulled Pork or Brisket: For a more substantial meal, the salad provides a refreshing counterpoint to rich, slow-cooked meats.
• Grilled Fish or Shrimp Skewers: A lighter option that still offers plenty of flavor.
• Vegetarian Burgers or Portobello Mushrooms: For a meatless meal, these provide a satisfying main alongside the salad.

How Long Can Salad Supreme Pasta Salad Be Kept in the Fridge?

For optimal freshness and safety, Salad Supreme Pasta Salad can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Always ensure it’s kept in an airtight container or tightly covered with plastic wrap to prevent it from drying out and to maintain its flavors. It’s crucial not to leave pasta salad out at room temperature for longer than two hours, as this can lead to bacterial growth. Prompt refrigeration is key to enjoying your leftovers safely!

Should Salad Supreme Seasoning Be Refrigerated?

Yes, McCormick Salad Supreme seasoning should indeed be refrigerated after opening. This is because the seasoning blend contains cheddar cheese and other dairy products. Refrigeration is essential to preserve its freshness and prevent these dairy components from spoiling or losing their flavor over time.

Does Pasta Salad Freeze Well?

Unfortunately, we do not recommend freezing this particular pasta salad recipe. The fresh vegetables, such as zucchini, grape tomatoes, and bell peppers, contain a high water content. When defrosted, these vegetables tend to become limp, watery, and lose their desirable crisp texture, significantly impacting the overall quality of the salad. If you find yourself needing a smaller portion, it’s best to simply halve the recipe rather than preparing a full batch for freezing.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Salad Supreme Pasta Salad

Is Salad Supreme Being Discontinued?

No, McCormick Salad Supreme seasoning is not being discontinued. There were some rumors about its discontinuation during the pandemic, likely due to temporary supply chain challenges that made it difficult to find in local grocery stores. However, McCormick has confirmed it is still in production and it is not listed on their discontinued products page. If you’re having trouble finding it locally, you can conveniently purchase it on Amazon here.

How to Make Pasta Salad Without Salad Supreme Seasoning?

If you don’t have McCormick Salad Supreme seasoning on hand or prefer to make your own blend, don’t worry! You can easily create a delicious pasta salad seasoning from scratch. There are many copycat McCormick Salad Supreme recipes available, such as this one here, which typically combine a mix of spices, herbs, and dried cheese to mimic the original flavor profile.

How Do You Keep Pasta Salad from Getting Soggy?

Preventing soggy pasta salad is crucial for a great texture. Here are key tips:

• Cook Pasta Al Dente: The most important step! Never overcook your pasta. Follow the package directions precisely to ensure your pasta is firm to the bite.
• Drain Well: After cooking, drain the pasta thoroughly. Excess water will dilute your dressing and make the salad watery.
• Don’t Rinse (Usually): Rinsing pasta, especially for cold salads, can wash away surface starches that help the dressing adhere. However, if your pasta is very starchy and you’re concerned about it clumping, a quick rinse with cold water and immediate draining is acceptable.
• Dress in Stages: Some chefs suggest using only half the dressing when initially mixing the salad and adding the remaining half just before serving. This allows the pasta to absorb some flavor without becoming oversaturated, and you can adjust the moisture level before presentation.

Should You Make Pasta Salad the Night Before?

Yes, absolutely! Making pasta salad the night before is an excellent strategy. Allowing the salad to rest overnight in the refrigerator gives all the ingredients time to meld together, deepening and enriching the flavors significantly. To keep the pasta salad from drying out, always cover the container tightly with plastic wrap or use an airtight lid before refrigerating.

Why Is My Pasta Salad Not Creamy?

If your pasta salad isn’t as creamy as you’d like, it often comes down to the pasta’s texture and how it interacts with the dressing:

• Pasta Doneness: Pasta cooked just right is essential. Undercooked pasta won’t absorb enough dressing, leading to a dry salad. Overcooked pasta, on the other hand, can become mushy. Some experts suggest cooking pasta slightly past al dente for cold salads, as this allows it to absorb more dressing as it cools, contributing to a creamier texture.
• Dressing Ratio: Ensure you have enough dressing for the amount of pasta and vegetables. The pasta should be well coated but not swimming in dressing.
• Chilling Time: Adequate chilling time allows the pasta to soak up the dressing, enhancing creaminess.
• Creamy Dressing Base: If you desire a truly creamy salad, consider using a dressing that includes mayonnaise, sour cream, or Greek yogurt as a base, rather than a solely oil-and-vinegar Italian dressing.

Is McCormick Salad Supreme Seasoning Gluten-Free?

Yes, McCormick Perfect Pinch Salad Supreme seasoning is labeled as gluten-free on the front of its packaging. However, as product formulations can change, it is always recommended to check the nutrition label of the specific product you purchase to ensure it aligns with your dietary needs. It’s also worth noting that this seasoning is not vegan, as it contains dairy ingredients like cheddar cheese.

Other Delicious Salad Recipes to Explore

If you’ve enjoyed this Salad Supreme Pasta Salad, you might be interested in trying some of these other fantastic salad recipes:

• Meal Prep Salads for Weight Loss: Healthy and convenient salads designed for your weekly meal planning.
• Bob Evans Summer Berry Salad: A refreshing fruit-filled salad with a vibrant raspberry vinaigrette.
• Orange Chicken Salad with Strawberries: A unique blend of sweet and savory flavors.
• Popcorn Chicken Salad Recipe: A fun and hearty salad featuring crispy popcorn chicken.