If you’re on the hunt for a pasta salad that’s bursting with flavor, creaminess, and a delightful zing, look no further than this Salad Supreme Pasta Salad Recipe. It brings together tender pasta, crisp veggies, and the unmistakable tang of Salad Supreme seasoning into one vibrant bowl that’s perfect for warm-weather gatherings or anytime you want a crowd-pleaser. Creamy, colorful, and refreshingly bold, this dish promises to be your new go-to potluck favorite!
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Salad Supreme Pasta Salad Recipe is in its simplicity and the thoughtful combination of ingredients. Each one plays a crucial role in delivering the perfect balance of textures and flavors, from the creamy dressing to the crisp veggies and perfectly cooked pasta.
- 2 cups rotini or elbow pasta (uncooked): These shapes hold onto the dressing beautifully for maximum flavor in every bite.
- ¾ cup mayonnaise: Provides the creamy base that ties all ingredients together with a luscious mouthfeel.
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar: Adds a bright, tangy lift that cuts through the richness.
- 1 teaspoon sugar: Balances the tanginess of the vinegar for a harmonious taste.
- 1½ teaspoons Salad Supreme seasoning: The star of the show, delivering that unique zesty punch this salad is famous for.
- ½ teaspoon salt (optional, to taste): Enhances all the flavors, seasoning adjusted to your preference.
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper: Adds a subtle hint of spice and depth.
- ½ cup cucumber, diced: Brings refreshing crunch and vibrant green color.
- ½ cup cherry tomatoes, halved: Bursts of sweetness and juicy texture.
- ⅓ cup red onion, finely diced: Offers sharpness and a slight bite for balance.
- ¼ cup shredded carrots: Adds natural sweetness and a pop of orange brightness.
How to Make Salad Supreme Pasta Salad Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Begin by boiling your rotini or elbow pasta according to the package directions until al dente. Don’t overcook—firm pasta ensures a nice bite that won’t turn mushy. Once cooked, drain the pasta and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process and cool it down for the salad.
Step 2: Prepare the Dressing
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, sugar, Salad Supreme seasoning, salt, and black pepper. This creamy dressing is packed with flavor and will coat your ingredients perfectly, turning ordinary pasta into something unforgettable.
Step 3: Add Pasta and Veggies
Dump the cooled pasta into the bowl with the dressing, then add diced cucumber, cherry tomatoes, red onion, and shredded carrots. These veggies add a wonderful crunch, color, and freshness that complement the creamy pasta and tangy dressing beautifully.
Step 4: Toss and Refrigerate
Give everything a good toss until each piece is coated evenly with the dressing. Cover and refrigerate for at least one hour to marry the flavors and chill the salad. This resting time is key to getting the Salad Supreme Pasta Salad Recipe just right.
How to Serve Salad Supreme Pasta Salad Recipe
Garnishes
For a finishing touch, sprinkle some chopped fresh parsley or a few extra dashes of Salad Supreme seasoning on top. A few extra slices of cucumber or halved cherry tomatoes can also bring an inviting pop of color and freshness to the presentation.
Side Dishes
This pasta salad pairs wonderfully with grilled chicken, burgers, or even alongside a fresh green salad, making it ideal for BBQs and casual dinners. It complements just about any main course with its creamy tang and satisfying crunch.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve this salad in colorful glass bowls to highlight its vibrant ingredients. For parties, consider individual mason jar servings to make it easy and appealing. You could also layer it over fresh lettuce leaves for a pretty pasta salad platter that looks as good as it tastes.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep any leftover Salad Supreme Pasta Salad Recipe in an airtight container in the fridge. It stays fresh and delicious for up to 3 days, making it perfect for next-day lunches or snacks.
Freezing
This pasta salad is best enjoyed fresh as freezing can change the texture of the mayonnaise and veggies, often making them watery upon thawing. It’s recommended to avoid freezing for the best experience.
Reheating
Since this is a cold pasta salad, reheating isn’t necessary. Simply give it a good stir before serving and add a bit more mayonnaise if it seems dry.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! While rotini or elbow pasta works best because of their shape and texture, penne or bow-tie pasta are also great substitutes that hold the dressing well.
What if I don’t have Salad Supreme seasoning?
You can create a similar flavor by mixing paprika, celery seed, chili powder, garlic powder, and a little sugar. However, the original Salad Supreme seasoning gives this recipe its unique tangy zest.
Is this salad suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, this Salad Supreme Pasta Salad Recipe is vegetarian-friendly as it contains no meat or animal-based gelatin. You can easily add cheese or vegetarian-friendly protein for more substance.
Can I make this salad vegan?
To make it vegan, substitute the mayonnaise with a plant-based alternative and ensure your Salad Supreme seasoning doesn’t contain any animal products. The rest of the ingredients are naturally vegan.
How long should I chill the salad before serving?
For the best flavor, chilling the salad for at least one hour is ideal. This allows the seasoning to infuse the pasta and veggies thoroughly. You can also prepare it a day ahead to deepen the taste.
Final Thoughts
Once you try this Salad Supreme Pasta Salad Recipe, you’ll understand why it’s a beloved classic at potlucks and family gatherings. The perfect marriage of creamy, tangy, and fresh flavors makes it so much more than just a side dish — it’s a celebration in every bite. So go ahead, whip up a batch, and watch it disappear fast from your table!
Print
Salad Supreme Pasta Salad Recipe
- Total Time: 25 minutes plus at least 1 hour chilling time
- Yield: 6 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This classic American pasta salad features rotini coated in a creamy, tangy dressing made vibrant with Salad Supreme seasoning. Packed with fresh vegetables like cucumber, cherry tomatoes, red onion, and shredded carrots, it’s a colorful and flavorful side dish perfect for BBQs, potlucks, or summer gatherings.
Ingredients
Salad Ingredients
- 2 cups rotini or elbow pasta (uncooked)
- ½ cup cucumber, diced
- ½ cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- ⅓ cup red onion, finely diced
- ¼ cup shredded carrots
Dressing
- ¾ cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1½ teaspoons Salad Supreme seasoning
- ½ teaspoon salt (optional, to taste)
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Cook Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the rotini or elbow pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Drain the pasta and rinse under cold water to cool and stop the cooking process. Set aside to drain thoroughly.
- Prepare Dressing: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, sugar, Salad Supreme seasoning, salt (if using), and black pepper until smooth and well combined. This dressing adds the bold, tangy flavor signature to the salad.
- Combine Salad: Add the cooled pasta and chopped vegetables (cucumber, cherry tomatoes, red onion, and shredded carrots) to the bowl with the dressing. Toss gently but thoroughly to ensure everything is evenly coated with the creamy seasoning mixture.
- Chill Salad: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or transfer the pasta salad to an airtight container. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow flavors to meld and the salad to chill before serving. Stir again before serving. If the salad seems dry, add a spoonful of mayonnaise and mix well.
Notes
- For extra flavor and heartiness, add cubed cheese such as cheddar or mozzarella or some pepperoni slices.
- Always stir the salad before serving to redistribute the dressing and keep it creamy.
- If the salad thickens or seems dry after refrigeration, gently mix in an additional spoonful of mayonnaise.
- Salad Supreme seasoning is key to the distinctive tangy flavor; adjust amount to taste.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Boiling
- Cuisine: American
