Kitty'S Pasta Salad
A vibrant pasta salad combining fresh vegetables, tender shrimp, and flavorful Italian dressing, perfect for summer gatherings, picnics, or quick weeknight dinners with a zesty twist.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook spaghetti according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
- Bring a pot of water to a boil and cook the shrimp until pink and cooked through; drain.
- Peel and chop cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, onion or green onion, and green peppers.
- In a large bowl, combine cooked spaghetti, shrimp, and chopped vegetables.
- Add Zesty Italian salad dressing and McCormick Salad Supreme; toss to combine.
- Serve immediately or refrigerate for later enjoyment.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance flavors, let the pasta salad chill in the refrigerator for at least an hour before serving. For a lighter option, consider using whole grain or gluten-free spaghetti. If you prefer a creamier texture, add a dollop of mayonnaise or Greek yogurt. Fresh herbs like parsley or basil can elevate this dish further, providing a fresh taste. For a twist, try adding ingredients from other Italian recipes.
Serving Suggestions
This pasta salad is perfect as a light main dish or a side at barbecues and picnics. Pair it with grilled chicken or a seafood dish like Shrimp And Broccoli Fettuccine for a well-rounded meal. For a complete dining experience, consider serving it alongside a crisp green salad or garlic bread to complement the flavors.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover pasta salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To maintain the texture of the vegetables, avoid adding dressing until you're ready to serve. If the salad seems dry after refrigeration, you can add a splash of Zesty Italian dressing before serving to refresh it.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Kitty'S Pasta Salad contains roughly 501 calories, with 30g protein, 51g carbohydrates, and 19g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (87% of the Daily Value), protein (60% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (22% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1641mg per serving (71% 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 use a different type of pasta instead of spaghetti?
Absolutely! While spaghetti is traditional, you can substitute with any pasta shape you prefer, such as penne or fusilli. Just adjust the cooking time according to the package instructions to ensure it's perfectly al dente.
Is this pasta salad suitable for meal prep?
Yes, this salad is great for meal prep. Keep the dressing separate until you're ready to eat to maintain the freshness of the vegetables. It makes for an easy grab-and-go lunch or dinner throughout the week.
What can I add to spice it up?
For a kick, consider adding diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes. You could also mix in some sliced olives or pepperoncini for tanginess, which complements the shrimp beautifully.
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).