Delightful Salad Supreme Pasta Salad for Summer Gatherings

There is something undeniably delightful about a bowl of salad supreme pasta salad. Imagine colorful veggies mingling with perfectly cooked pasta, all tossed together in a zesty dressing that dances on your taste buds. It’s a dish that sings summer picnics, backyard barbecues, and family gatherings, bringing everyone together in a delicious embrace.

As I recall my grandmother’s cooking, this salad was always the star of our family reunions. The way she layered flavors and textures made each bite a new adventure. Whether it was for a potluck or just a sunny Sunday lunch, this salad never failed to impress. Get ready to dive into an explosion of flavor that will have you going back for seconds (or thirds) before you even realize it!

I remember one summer BBQ where I brought this dish; friends were fighting over the last scoop like it was gold!

Essential Ingredients

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

• Pasta (Rotini or Bowtie): Opt for colorful pasta shapes; they add fun and texture to the salad.

• Cherry Tomatoes: Sweet and juicy; choose ripe ones for maximum flavor.

• Cucumber: Crisp and refreshing; peel if you prefer a milder taste.

• Bell Peppers (Red, Yellow, Green): A mix adds vibrant colors; go for firm peppers without blemishes.

• Red Onion: Thinly sliced for a mild yet tangy crunch; soak in water if too pungent.

• Olives (Black or Green): Pitted olives add saltiness and depth; choose your favorite variety.

• Dressing (Italian or Vinaigrette): Use store-bought or homemade; balance flavors with herbs and spices.

• Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated cheese brings creaminess; sprinkle generously on top before serving.

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

Let’s Make it Together

Cook the Pasta: Begin by boiling water in a large pot and adding salt once it reaches a rolling boil. Cook the pasta until al dente according to package directions. Drain and rinse under cold water until cool.

Prep the Veggies: While the pasta cools, chop your veggies into bite-sized pieces. The more color you add, the better! Mix cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, bell peppers, red onion, and olives into a large mixing bowl.

Toss It All Together: Add the cooled pasta to your vegetable mix. Drizzle your chosen dressing over the top and toss everything gently until well combined. Personal tip: Use two forks for easy mixing without breaking the pasta.

Add Cheese and Chill: Sprinkle freshly grated Parmesan cheese over your salad masterpiece. Cover with plastic wrap or transfer to an airtight container and let chill in the fridge for at least 30 minutes.

Serve and Enjoy: Once chilled, give your salad one last toss to blend flavors before serving. Enjoy this vibrant medley at parties or as an everyday side dish—every bite bursts with freshness!

This salad supreme pasta salad is not just food; it’s an experience filled with laughter and joy around every table it graces!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by cooking the pasta until al dente, then mix it with veggies while cooling down. This ensures everything blends perfectly and remains fresh.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap in your favorite veggies or proteins, or add a handful of nuts for crunch. Experimenting makes it uniquely yours.

Storing & Reheating

Store the salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. No reheating needed; it’s delightful served cold!

Cooking this salad reminds me of summer picnics where friends would rave about my “famous” creation. Their smiles made every effort worthwhile, creating cherished memories.

FAQ

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

Any short pasta like rotini or penne holds dressing well and adds texture.

Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Absolutely! It tastes even better when flavors have time to mingle overnight.

Is there a vegetarian option for this recipe?

Yes, simply omit meat and bulk up on beans and veggies for protein.

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Delightful Salad Supreme Pasta Salad

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• Author: Rachel Lawson
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: Serves 6

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Description

Experience a burst of vibrant flavors with this Salad Supreme Pasta Salad, perfect for summer gatherings, picnics, or weeknight dinners. Tossed with colorful veggies, al dente pasta, and a zesty dressing, each bite is a refreshing celebration of taste. This versatile dish can be served as a main course or side and is sure to impress family and friends alike.

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Ingredients

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• 8 oz rotini pasta
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 medium cucumber, diced
• 1 cup bell peppers (mixed colors), diced
• 1/2 medium red onion, thinly sliced
• 1/2 cup olives (black or green), pitted and sliced
• 1/2 cup Italian dressing
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

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Instructions

1. Cook the rotini pasta in boiling salted water until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool.
2. While the pasta cools, chop the cherry tomatoes, cucumber, bell peppers, red onion, and olives into bite-sized pieces.
3. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta with the chopped vegetables.
4. Drizzle the Italian dressing over the mixture and toss gently to combine; use two forks for easy mixing.
5. Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese on top. Cover and chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Category: Salad
• Method: Boiling
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (250g)
• Calories: 320
• Sugar: 4g
• Sodium: 580mg
• Fat: 15g
• Saturated Fat: 6g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 35g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 10g
• Cholesterol: 20mg