Emmy'S Pasta Salad
A vibrant pasta salad with fresh vegetables and flavorful seasonings, perfect for picnics, barbecues, or casual gatherings, offering a crisp, savory, and tangy taste.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cut the bell pepper, onion, and cucumber into fine pieces.
- Mix the chopped vegetables with cooked and drained spaghetti.
- Add one bottle of McCormick Salad Supreme and one 12-ounce bottle of Italian dressing.
- Mix everything well to combine all flavors.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider roasting the bell pepper and onion before mixing them with the spaghetti. You can substitute any short pasta if you prefer, or use gluten-free spaghetti for a gluten-free option. If you want a bit of crunch, add some chopped nuts or seeds. You can also include ingredients like cherry tomatoes or olives for extra color and taste.
Serving Suggestions
This pasta salad is a perfect side dish for summer barbecues or potlucks and pairs beautifully with Bertha'S Sweet Pickle Sticks. Serve it alongside grilled meats or as part of a buffet spread. You can also top it with some grilled chicken or tofu for a heartier meal, making it great for lunch or dinner.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors will meld and improve after a few hours, so it's perfect for making ahead of time. When ready to enjoy, simply serve cold or at room temperature; there's no need to reheat this dish.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Emmy'S Pasta Salad contains roughly 51 calories, with 1g protein, 8g carbohydrates, and 2g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (36% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I add protein to this pasta salad?
Absolutely! You can incorporate grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas to make it more filling. Tofu is also a great option if you're looking for a plant-based protein. Just ensure any added protein complements the flavors of the salad.
How can I make this pasta salad more flavorful?
To enhance the flavor, consider adding fresh herbs like basil or parsley. A sprinkle of feta cheese or parmesan can also elevate the taste. Additionally, adjusting the amount of Italian dressing and Salad Supreme to your preference will ensure the salad packs the flavor punch you desire.
Is this recipe suitable for vegan diets?
Yes, this recipe can easily be made vegan! Simply check your salad dressing to ensure it's vegan-friendly, and skip any cheese toppings. You can also add extra vegetables or legumes for added nutrition and flavor, making it a delicious option for vegan diets.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).