Easy Supreme Salad Pasta Salad Recipe For Summer Days
Supreme salad pasta salad recipe is a delightful combination of classic pasta salad with fresh vegetables, savory meats, cheeses, and a tangy dressing.
Equipment
- The following list includes essential utensils, kitchen tools, and appliances required for preparing the supreme salad pasta salad recipe:
- Large pot
- Colander
- Large Mixing Bowl
- Whisk
- Cutting board
- Chef's knife
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Plastic wrap or airtight container
Ingredients
- 1 pound pasta (rotini, penne, or farfalle work well)
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup Italian dressing
- 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup cucumber, diced
- 1 cup bell pepper (any color), diced
- 1/2 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup black olives, sliced
- 4 ounces salami or pepperoni, diced
- 4 ounces mozzarella cheese, cubed
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Step 1: Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente. Drain the pasta and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process. This step is crucial to make sure that pasta will not become mushy.
- Step 2: Prepare the Dressing: In a large bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, Italian dressing, red wine vinegar, sugar, garlic powder, and black pepper until well combined. Adjust the seasonings to taste, adding more sugar or vinegar as needed to achieve the desired flavor.
- Step 3: Combine Ingredients: Add the cooked pasta, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, bell pepper, red onion, olives, salami, and mozzarella cheese to the bowl with the dressing. Gently toss all ingredients together until evenly coated.
- Step 4: Chill and Serve: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. Before serving, stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and garnish with fresh parsley. Optional: For a spicier version, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the dressing. Grilled chicken, artichoke hearts, or sun-dried tomatoes also make excellent additions.
Notes
Variations
The supreme salad pasta salad recipe lends itself well to a variety of adaptations, catering to individual preferences, regional influences, and dietary needs:
- Ingredient Swaps: For a vegetarian option, replace salami with grilled vegetables such as zucchini, eggplant, or artichoke hearts. Chickpeas or white beans also provide a protein-rich alternative. Different cheeses, such as feta or provolone, can also be substituted.
- Regional Twists: Incorporate ingredients from specific regional cuisines. A Mediterranean-inspired version might include sun-dried tomatoes, Kalamata olives, and crumbled feta cheese. A Southwestern twist could feature black beans, corn, avocado, and a cilantro-lime dressing.
- Dietary Adjustments: To accommodate gluten sensitivities, use gluten-free pasta. A lighter version can be achieved by substituting Greek yogurt for some of the mayonnaise or using a vinaigrette-based dressing instead of a creamy one.
Serving Suggestions
The supreme salad pasta salad recipe is a versatile dish suitable for various occasions:
- Potlucks and Picnics: Its make-ahead nature makes it an ideal choice for gatherings where convenience is key.
- Lunch or Dinner: Serve as a main course for a light and refreshing meal, or as a side dish alongside grilled meats or vegetables.
- Seasonal Celebrations: Customize the ingredients to reflect seasonal produce and flavors.
Storage Tips
Proper storage is essential for preserving the freshness and flavor of the supreme salad pasta salad recipe:
- Refrigeration: Store the salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
- Shelf Life: It will typically keep for 3-5 days.
- Maintaining Freshness: To prevent the pasta from drying out, add a tablespoon or two of olive oil before storing. If the salad appears dry after refrigeration, stir in a little extra dressing before serving.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Question 1: Can the pasta salad be made ahead of time?
Answer: Yes, this salad is ideal for making ahead. The flavors meld together even better after a few hours or overnight in the refrigerator. - Question 2: Can I freeze pasta salad?
Answer: Freezing is not recommended, as the texture of the pasta and vegetables may become mushy upon thawing. - Question 3: What is the best type of pasta to use?
Answer: Rotini, penne, and farfalle are popular choices due to their shape, which allows them to hold the dressing well. However, any short pasta shape can be used. - Question 4: Can I add other vegetables?
Answer: Absolutely. Broccoli florets, carrots, and celery are all great additions.