Name: Salad Supreme Pasta Salad
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 cups rotini pasta; 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 1 cup cucumber, diced; 1 cup bell peppers (mixed colors), sliced; ½ cup olives (black or green); ¼ cup olive oil; 2 tbsp vinegar (red wine or apple cider); 1 tsp mustard; 2 cloves garlic, minced; Salt and pepper to taste; ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese; ¼ cup fresh herbs (basil or parsley), chopped

Print Recipe

A vibrant bowl of salad supreme pasta salad can brighten any table, bursting with colors and flavors that dance like confetti at a party. Imagine the crunch of fresh vegetables mingling with al dente pasta, all tossed in a zesty dressing that whispers sweet nothings to your taste buds. deviled egg pasta delight It’s perfect for family gatherings, picnics, or just because you want a delightful dining experience without too much fuss.

Every bite of this dish tells a story, reminding me of sunny afternoons spent at potlucks where everyone brings their ‘A’ game. I still hear my Aunt Karen bragging about her secret ingredient, which turned out to be just a little extra love (or maybe just a few more olives). asparagus and pea salad Trust me; once you make this salad supreme pasta salad, it will become the talk of the town, or at least the highlight of your next BBQ.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

This salad supreme pasta salad is incredibly easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights
Its bold flavors and textures create an unforgettable dining experience
With its bright colors and fresh ingredients, this dish is visually stunning on any table
Whether served as a side or main dish, its versatility makes it suitable for any occasion

I remember the first time my friends devoured this salad; they couldn’t stop raving about how delicious it was!

Recipe preparation

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

Pasta: Choose your favorite type, rotini or bowtie works best for holding onto the dressing and veggies.
Cherry Tomatoes: Opt for vibrant red ones; they add sweetness and burst in your mouth.
Cucumber: A crunchy addition that brings refreshing coolness to every bite.
Bell Peppers: Use a mix of colors for visual appeal and sweetness; red and yellow are my go-to choices.
Olives: Black or green olives offer a briny kick that balances the flavors beautifully.
Dressing: A blend of olive oil, vinegar, mustard, garlic, salt, and pepper creates a tangy zip that ties everything together.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan adds richness and depth; don’t skimp on this one!
Fresh Herbs: Basil or parsley works wonders in adding freshness; chop them finely before adding.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it Together

Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to boil over medium-high heat. Add pasta and cook until al dente according to package instructions. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop cooking.

Prepare the Veggies: While the pasta cooks, chop cherry tomatoes in half, dice cucumbers into bite-sized pieces, and slice bell peppers into strips. Set aside in a large mixing bowl.

Create the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, vinegar, mustard, minced garlic, salt, and pepper until well combined. The aroma will tickle your senses!

Toss Everything Together: In the mixing bowl with vegetables, add cooled pasta along with olives and freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Pour dressing over everything and mix well until evenly coated.

Add Fresh Herbs: Gently fold in chopped basil or parsley until evenly distributed throughout the salad. The herbs will bring an aromatic freshness that enhances every bite.

Chill Before Serving: Cover salad with plastic wrap or transfer to an airtight container. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld beautifully together.

Enjoy! Your salad supreme pasta salad is now ready to impress at any gathering or cozy dinner night! For more inspiration, check out this Philly Cheesesteak Pasta recipe.

You Must Know

Salad supreme pasta salad is a delightful mix of flavors and textures, perfect for any gathering
This dish combines fresh veggies and pasta, creating a burst of color and taste
The creamy dressing ties it all together, making it irresistible at potlucks or picnics

Perfecting the Cooking Process

To achieve the best results, cook the pasta first, then chop the veggies while it cools. balsamic chicken with veggies This way, everything comes together seamlessly without overcooking.

Serving and storing

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out vegetables based on your preferences or what’s in season. You can also add proteins like grilled chicken or chickpeas for extra heartiness.

Storing & Reheating

Store salad supreme pasta salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Enjoy it cold; there’s no need to reheat!

Chef's Helpful Tips

To make your salad supreme pasta salad shine, remember that fresh ingredients are key
Avoid overcooking the pasta; al dente provides better texture
Mix the dressing just before serving to keep everything crisp and vibrant

There was this one time at a family reunion when I brought my salad supreme pasta salad. It was gone within minutes! Everyone kept asking for the recipe, proving just how loved this dish truly is. twisted macaroni salad recipe.

FAQs

FAQ

What type of pasta works best for salad supreme pasta salad?

You can use any short pasta like rotini or fusilli, which hold onto the dressing well. Their shape adds visual appeal too! Just ensure it’s cooked al dente for the best texture.

Can I make salad supreme pasta salad ahead of time?

Absolutely! In fact, making it a day ahead enhances the flavor as the ingredients meld together. Just store it in the fridge until you’re ready to serve.

Is there a vegan option for this recipe?

Yes! Simply substitute regular mayo with vegan mayonnaise and leave out any animal proteins. You can also toss in extra beans or nuts for protein while keeping it plant-based.