Maryann'S Pasta Salad
A vibrant pasta salad combining creamy Caesar and zesty Italian dressings, fresh vegetables, and seasoning, perfect for casual gatherings or quick summer meals.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Add drained cooked linguini to a large mixing bowl.
- Pour in the Caesar salad dressing and Zesty Italian dressing.
- Add McCormick Salad Supreme seasoning, chopped onion, and chopped tomato.
- Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are well combined.
- Serve at room temperature or chilled.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt. You can substitute the linguini with whole wheat pasta or gluten-free options if needed. Fresh herbs like basil or parsley can enhance the flavors. For a protein boost, add cooked chicken or chickpeas, making it a heartier dish. This pasta salad also pairs beautifully with Dave's Cole Slaw for a complete meal.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this pasta salad as a refreshing side dish at barbecues or picnics. It complements grilled meats, such as chicken or steak, beautifully. For a vegetarian option, pair it with a green salad or the Green Tomato And Vidalia Onion Tart. Garnish with grated Parmesan cheese for added flavor.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To maintain the texture, avoid reheating if serving chilled. If you prefer it warm, gently toss in a skillet over low heat until heated through, adding a splash of extra dressing to keep it moist.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Maryann'S Pasta Salad contains roughly 511 calories, with 19g protein, 35g carbohydrates, and 33g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (38% of the Daily Value), calcium (38% of the Daily Value), and vitamin C (36% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1276mg per serving (55% of the Daily Value).
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this pasta salad ahead of time?
Yes, this pasta salad can be made up to 24 hours in advance. Just be sure to store it in the refrigerator in an airtight container. The flavors will meld beautifully as it sits, but you may want to add a little extra dressing before serving to freshen it up.
What can I add to make it more filling?
To make this pasta salad more filling, consider adding grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas for protein. You can also toss in some diced bell peppers, cucumbers, or olives for extra texture and flavor, making it a well-rounded meal.
Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, this pasta salad is vegetarian-friendly as it contains no meat. However, always check the salad dressings for any hidden animal products, particularly if you're following a strict vegetarian or vegan diet. You can also enhance it with vegetables or legumes for added nutrition.
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).