Salad Supreme Pasta Salad

This Salad Supreme Pasta Salad is a vibrant, chilled dish that combines colorful vegetables, rotini pasta, and bold seasonings to create a crowd-pleasing favorite. Enhanced by a flavorful Italian dressing and the classic McCormick Salad Supreme seasoning, it’s a zesty and refreshing option perfect for warm-weather meals, backyard barbecues, or quick weekday lunches. The crisp crunch of cucumbers and bell peppers pairs beautifully with the tender pasta, while the cubed cheddar adds a creamy, savory note to every bite. It’s a make-ahead dish that gets even better as it chills, allowing all the flavors to marry. Whether you serve it as a main or a side, this pasta salad is sure to become a go-to recipe in your kitchen.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients:

• 1 lb rotini pasta

• 1/2 cup Italian salad dressing

• 1 tablespoon Salad Supreme seasoning

• 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

• 1/2 cup cucumber, diced

• 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped

• 1/4 cup sliced black olives

• 1/4 cup green bell pepper, diced

• 1/4 cup cheddar cheese, cubed

• Salt and pepper to taste

Directions:

1. Cook pasta according to package directions. Drain and rinse under cold water.

2. In a large bowl, combine pasta, vegetables, and cheese.

3. Add Italian dressing and Salad Supreme seasoning.

4. Toss to coat evenly and season with salt and pepper if desired.

5. Cover and chill for at least 1 hour before serving to allow flavors to meld.

6. Stir before serving and enjoy cold.

Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 10 minutes | Total Time: 20 minutes
Kcal: 310 kcal | Servings: 6 servings

A Flavorful Twist on a Classic: Salad Supreme Pasta Salad

Pasta salads are a quintessential favorite during warm weather months and for good reason  they’re quick, versatile, and refreshing. Among the many variations out there, the Salad Supreme Pasta Salad stands out for its bold flavor, vibrant colors, and simplicity. This recipe captures the essence of summer with crisp vegetables, a tangy Italian dressing, and the star of the show McCormick’s Salad Supreme seasoning. Whether you’re planning a backyard barbecue, a picnic at the park, or just need a quick lunch option that satisfies, this pasta salad checks all the boxes.

What Makes Salad Supreme Pasta Salad Unique?

At its core, Salad Supreme Pasta Salad is built around rotini pasta, known for its spiral shape that holds onto dressings and spices exceptionally well. However, what really elevates this dish is the Salad Supreme seasoning blend, a proprietary mix by McCormick that includes Romano cheese, paprika, sesame seeds, poppy seeds, and a blend of herbs and spices. This seasoning blend adds a flavor punch that is both savory and slightly tangy, making the dish more than just a typical pasta salad.

Another stand-out feature is the use of fresh vegetables. Crunchy cucumbers, sweet cherry tomatoes, red onions, and bell peppers provide a refreshing contrast to the chewy pasta, while black olives and cheddar cheese cubes bring in depth and saltiness. The combination of textures and flavors makes every bite exciting and balanced.

The Role of Salad Supreme Seasoning

The Salad Supreme seasoning blend is a nostalgic pantry staple for many, especially in American households. First introduced by McCormick decades ago, it gained popularity for its ability to transform ordinary salads and pasta dishes into something with a zesty kick.

In this particular pasta salad recipe, the seasoning doesn’t just add flavor it defines it. The cheese and spice mix clings to the grooves of the rotini, creating layers of taste that work harmoniously with the Italian dressing. Unlike other pasta salads that might rely heavily on mayonnaise or cream-based dressings, this version is lighter but no less satisfying, making it ideal for those who want a less indulgent option without compromising flavor.

A Versatile Addition to Any Menu

One of the biggest advantages of Salad Supreme Pasta Salad is how versatile it is. It can be served as:

• A main dish for lunch or light dinner

• A vibrant side for grilled meats like chicken, steak, or kebabs

• A potluck or picnic dish that can be made ahead of time

• A base for custom additions like chickpeas, grilled shrimp, or even diced avocado

Thanks to its simplicity and adaptability, it’s easy to make it your own. For those looking to go plant-based, the cheese can be omitted or swapped for a vegan alternative. If you’re not a fan of olives or onions, you can customize the ingredients to fit your tastes or dietary needs.

Make-Ahead Friendly and Meal Prep Approved

Another reason this pasta salad is such a hit among home cooks is because it stores beautifully. In fact, it tastes even better after it’s been allowed to chill for a few hours giving all the ingredients time to marinate and absorb the seasoning and dressing. That makes it perfect for meal prepping.

Simply store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator and enjoy it for up to 3-4 days. It travels well, making it a lunchbox favorite or a go-to item for road trips, family gatherings, or events where refrigeration may be limited.

For best results, give it a quick stir before serving to redistribute any dressing that may have settled at the bottom.

Ideal for Every Occasion

From casual weeknight dinners to festive holiday tables, the Salad Supreme Pasta Salad is the kind of recipe that feels at home in any setting. Because it can be served cold or at room temperature, it’s perfect for buffets, picnics, and even school or office potlucks.

This pasta salad brings color and visual appeal to any spread. The contrast of red tomatoes, green cucumbers, purple onion, yellow cheddar, and orange bell peppers makes it not just a dish for the palate, but also for the eyes. When garnished with fresh herbs like parsley or basil, it becomes an attractive centerpiece.

Tips for Making the Best Salad Supreme Pasta Salad

While the recipe is simple and foolproof, a few thoughtful tips can take it to the next level:

1. Don’t overcook the pasta – Slightly al dente pasta holds its shape and texture better after chilling.

2. Use quality dressing – Opt for a good-quality Italian dressing or even a homemade vinaigrette for best flavor.

3. Season at the end – Taste and adjust the seasoning after chilling, as flavors develop over time.

4. Balance the textures – Add crunchy elements like nuts or seeds if you want an extra layer of texture.

5. Add protein – To make it a complete meal, include grilled chicken, chickpeas, tuna, or hard-boiled eggs.

Nostalgia and Modern Appeal

For many people, this dish brings a sense of nostalgia. It’s often remembered from childhood picnics, potlucks, and family reunions. The Salad Supreme Pasta Salad recipe taps into that comfort food territory while also aligning with modern preferences for lighter, more colorful meals.

It’s proof that great flavor doesn’t have to be complicated sometimes all you need is the right seasoning, a few fresh ingredients, and a bit of creativity.

Conclusion:

In a world filled with ever-evolving food trends and complex recipes, the Salad Supreme Pasta Salad remains a timeless favorite. It’s easy to prepare, endlessly adaptable, and packed with flavor all while using common pantry and fridge ingredients. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just want something quick and satisfying, this salad is an ideal go-to.

Its vibrant colors and bold flavors make it not just a culinary win, but a visual one as well. Best of all, it encourages creativity inviting you to experiment with ingredients and flavors while still providing a reliable base that never disappoints.