If you’re looking for the ultimate summer side dish, this salad supreme pasta salad is your perfect match. Packed with vibrant vegetables, two kinds of cheese, and a flavor-packed blend of zesty Italian dressing and McCormick Salad Supreme Seasoning, it’s the kind of dish that gets devoured at barbecues and potlucks. Easy to prep, customizable, and bursting with savory flavor, this pasta salad is the refreshing upgrade your next gathering needs.

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Why This Salad Supreme Pasta Salad Is a Summer Favorite
This isn’t just another cold pasta salad—this is the salad supreme pasta salad. It’s quick to make, feeds a crowd, and balances tangy, cheesy, and fresh flavors like a pro. Thanks to the magic of rotini pasta catching every bit of dressing and seasoning, every bite is bursting with flavor. Plus, it’s vegetarian-friendly and totally meal-prep approved.
The key ingredient—McCormick Salad Supreme Seasoning—brings in notes of paprika, Romano cheese, garlic, sesame seeds, and celery seed, making this salad unforgettable.
What You’ll Need for This Flavor-Packed Pasta Salad
• Rotini Pasta: Holds dressing in every curve for maximum flavor.
• Cucumber: Adds a refreshing crunch and hydrating bite.
• Grape Tomatoes: Brings sweetness and a juicy pop.
• Carrots: Delivers texture and natural sweetness.
• Red Onion: Offers a sharp, colorful bite that balances the creamy cheese.
• Bell Pepper: Adds brightness and crunch; yellow makes the salad visually vibrant.
• Parmesan Cheese: Grated for salty, umami-rich depth throughout.
• Mozzarella Cheese: Cubed for a creamy, chewy texture contrast.
• McCormick Salad Supreme Seasoning: The star flavoring, layered and savory.
• Zesty Italian Dressing: Tangy, herbaceous, and ties all the flavors together.
Easy Ingredient Swaps for Your Pantry and Preferences
You can easily adapt this salad supreme pasta salad recipe to fit your fridge contents or dietary needs. Here’s how:
Pasta Options:
Swap rotini for fusilli, penne, bowtie, or even orzo. Gluten-free varieties work great too.
Veggie Swaps:
Don’t love cucumber or red onion? Try chopped broccoli, black olives, or roasted red pepper for a different twist.
Cheese Varieties:
Mozzarella cubes can be replaced with fresh mozzarella pearls, cheddar cubes, or crumbled feta for a bolder bite.
Protein Add-Ins:
Want to make it heartier? Add chopped salami, grilled chicken, or mini pepperoni slices.
Dressing Variations:
Not a fan of zesty Italian? Try classic Italian, balsamic vinaigrette, or even creamy ranch for a different flavor profile.
How to Make the Perfect Salad Supreme Pasta Salad
- Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse with cold water to cool it quickly.
- Chop all vegetables while the pasta is cooking: dice cucumbers, halve grape tomatoes, slice carrots and red onion, and chop bell pepper.
- Cube your mozzarella cheese and grate the parmesan if not already prepped.
- Add the cooled pasta to a large mixing bowl. Toss in all the chopped vegetables and both cheeses.
- Pour in the zesty Italian dressing and sprinkle McCormick Salad Supreme Seasoning over the top.
- Toss everything together thoroughly, ensuring even distribution of dressing and seasoning.
- Chill in the fridge for 30 minutes to 1 hour before serving for best flavor.
Insider Tips to Master This Pasta Salad
- Chop ahead: Prep your veggies earlier in the week for quicker assembly.
- Cool completely: Always let pasta cool fully before mixing in cheese to prevent melting.
- Rinse your onions: Run sliced red onions under cold water to mellow their sharpness.
- Make it ahead: Letting it sit overnight enhances the flavor blend.
- De-seed your cucumber: Keeps your salad crisp and prevents sogginess.
- Al dente is best: Slightly firm pasta holds dressing and texture better over time.
Delicious Pairings and Fun Variations to Try
Want to elevate your salad supreme pasta salad? Serve it alongside grilled chicken skewers, BBQ ribs, or turkey burgers. It also pairs perfectly with lemonade or sangria at a summer picnic.
For variations:
- Spicy twist: Add red pepper flakes or chopped jalapeños.
- Mediterranean vibe: Swap mozzarella for feta and toss in black olives and sun-dried tomatoes.
- Creamy version: Mix half Italian dressing with Greek yogurt or mayo for a tangy-creamy blend.
- Make-ahead: Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days. Flavors improve with time!
The Secret Ingredient That Makes All the Difference
What sets this salad apart from others is McCormick Salad Supreme Seasoning. Loaded with paprika, Romano cheese, garlic, sesame, and celery seed, it’s a one-step upgrade that delivers restaurant-level flavor with zero fuss. You can even make your own blend if you’re out, combining the key spices and a touch of grated cheese.
This salad supreme pasta salad isn’t just another cold noodle dish. It’s an all-in-one, zesty, cheese-loaded, veggie-packed summer staple that guarantees compliments. Whether you’re prepping for a party or looking for a colorful meal prep option, this pasta salad delivers every single time.
Wrapping It Up: The Perfect Summer Side You’ll Crave Again and Again
This salad supreme pasta salad is more than just a side—it’s a flavor-packed celebration of summer’s best. With its bold seasoning, vibrant veggies, and creamy cheese, it brings color, texture, and zesty taste to every bite. Whether you’re prepping for a picnic, potluck, or quick weekday meal, this dish delivers consistent crowd-pleasing results.
Make it your own with endless variations, and don’t be surprised when everyone asks for the recipe. It’s satisfying, simple, and truly the supreme of all pasta salads.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is McCormick Salad Supreme Seasoning made of?
McCormick Salad Supreme Seasoning is a zesty blend of spices that includes paprika, Romano cheese, garlic powder, sesame seeds, poppy seeds, celery seed, black pepper, and red pepper flakes. It’s what gives the salad supreme pasta salad its bold and savory punch.
Can I make this pasta salad without Salad Supreme seasoning?
Yes! If you don’t have the original seasoning mix, you can make a homemade version by combining paprika, grated Romano or Parmesan cheese, sesame seeds, garlic powder, and a pinch of red pepper. You’ll still get that signature zesty flavor that defines a supreme pasta salad.
How far in advance can I make salad supreme pasta salad?
This pasta salad is ideal for making ahead. For best results, make it 4–24 hours in advance and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This resting time allows the flavors to meld together beautifully. Just give it a stir before serving.
More Relevant Recipes
Print
Zesty Salad Supreme Pasta Salad Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 6–8 servings 1x
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Mixing, Boiling
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Salad Supreme Pasta Salad is a vibrant, zesty, and cheesy pasta dish made with rotini, fresh vegetables, zesty Italian dressing, and McCormick Salad Supreme Seasoning. Perfect for summer BBQs, potlucks, or meal prep, this crowd-pleasing side dish is loaded with flavor and easy to customize.
Ingredients
- 1 lb rotini pasta
- 1 cucumber, chopped
- 1 cup grape tomatoes, halved
- 2/3 cup carrots, chopped
- 1/2 red onion, sliced
- 1 yellow bell pepper, chopped
- 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 3 oz mozzarella cheese, cubed
- 1 1/2 tbsp McCormick Salad Supreme Seasoning
- 1 cup zesty Italian dressing
Instructions
- Boil the rotini pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool.
- While the pasta cooks, chop all vegetables: cucumber, tomatoes, carrots, onion, and bell pepper.
- Cube the mozzarella cheese and grate the parmesan, if not pre-grated.
- Add the cooled pasta to a large mixing bowl. Add in all chopped vegetables and cheeses.
- Pour the zesty Italian dressing and sprinkle the Salad Supreme Seasoning over the mixture.
- Toss everything together until evenly combined.
- Chill in the refrigerator for 30 minutes to 1 hour before serving for best flavor.
Notes
- Prepare a few hours or the day before for maximum flavor.
- Run red onion under water before slicing to reduce sharpness.
- De-seed cucumbers to maintain crunch.
- Use cold pasta to avoid melting the cheese.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 480mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 10g
- Cholesterol: 25mg
