How to Make Supreme Pasta Salad
Here are the step-by-step instructions for creating this flavorful dish:
- Cook the pasta al dente according to the package instructions.
- While the pasta cooks, prepare the veggies and cheese. Slice the zucchini, quarter the grape tomatoes and mozzarella balls, and dice the orange bell pepper and red onion.
- Drain the cooked pasta and let it cool. Do not rinse, as that can wash away the flavors. If the pasta sticks, add half of the Italian salad dressing.
- In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, zucchini, drained corn, mozzarella, pepper, tomatoes, onion, and Salad Supreme seasoning. Gently stir to combine. Add the Italian dressing and stir again.
- Optional: Sprinkle with fresh parsley or basil for an extra touch. Serve chilled or at room temperature, but avoid leaving it out for more than two hours.
How much Salad Supreme should you use?
I recommend using a quarter cup of Salad Supreme for every pound of dry pasta (454g). However, feel free to adjust the amount based on your personal taste preferences.
Ingredients for Supreme Pasta Salad
To make this mouthwatering dish, you’ll need:
- 1 lb. rotini or cavatappi pasta (dry)
- 1 cup thinly sliced zucchini
- 1 cup drained corn (approximately 8 ounces)
- 6 ounces small mozzarella balls
- 1 diced orange bell pepper
- 1 cup halved grape tomatoes
- 1/3 cup diced red onion
- 1 cup Italian dressing (light or regular)
- 1/4 cup McCormick Salad Supreme seasoning
- Fresh parsley or basil for garnish (optional)
Please refer to the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post for a handy shopping list.
The Distinct Flavor of Salad Supreme
Salad Supreme seasoning from McCormick offers a tangy, cheesy flavor with a hint of robust earthiness and a touch of hot spice. It adds a delightful kick to not only pasta salads but also vegetables, chicken, fish, and more.
Pasta Salad Substitutions
While this pasta salad is intended as a side dish, you can easily turn it into a main course by adding more protein, such as grilled chicken, turkey, or shrimp. Another option is to use vegetarian protein pasta like Banza chickpea pasta instead of regular wheat pasta.
If you prefer a different pasta shape, feel free to choose from a wide variety. From linguine to spaghetti to tricolor options, the choice is yours. Additionally, the list of ingredients can be customized to suit your preferences. Consider adding pepperoni, salami, black olives, cucumbers, cheddar cheese, parmesan cheese, or any other veggies you enjoy.
Pairing Suggestions
Here are a few main dishes that pair perfectly with this pasta salad:
- Air Fryer BBQ Chicken Breast
- Baked Riblets Recipe
- Costco Sandwiches
- Smoked Burgers
Storage and Nutrition Information
This pasta salad can be stored in the fridge for up to 3-4 days when covered in plastic wrap or kept in a covered container. Remember not to leave it at room temperature for more than two hours.
As for the nutrition details, each serving of this Salad Supreme pasta salad contains approximately 315 calories, 45.9 grams of net carbohydrates, and 11.9 grams of protein. Please note that actual nutrition information may vary based on portion sizes and the type of salad dressing used.
Expert Tips from a Dietitian
This recipe falls into the level 3 category, suitable for weight maintenance and active lifestyles. It mainly derives its calories from carbs, with less protein for satiety. Be mindful that pasta salad can be quite easy to overeat, so adjust portions accordingly.
To add more fiber, consider using whole grain pasta. However, be aware that it may alter the taste. Another option is using a combination of regular and whole wheat pasta. Keep the rainbow in mind when substituting vegetables; aim for similar-colored replacements to ensure a diverse range of phytochemical pigments.
Although the Salad Supreme seasoning is an ultra-processed ingredient, refrigerate it after opening to maintain freshness. It contains dairy products that can spoil if not refrigerated. If you’re on a low-sodium diet, note that the seasoning contains 55mg of sodium per ¼ teaspoon.
FAQs and More Salad Recipes
For answers to common questions and more salad recipes, explore the following:
- Delicious Meal Prep Salads for Weight Loss
- Summer Berry Salad
- Orange Chicken Salad with Strawberries
- Popcorn Chicken Salad Recipe
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Please remember that all recipes on this website should be tailored to meet your medical needs and personal preferences. Consult with a registered dietitian or your physician for personalized dietary advice.
The provided nutrition information is an estimate and may vary depending on the specific brands and ingredients used. Calorie information on food labels can be inaccurate, so don’t fret too much about the numbers.
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