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
