Ramsey'S Pasta Salad
A quick, vibrant pasta salad bursting with fresh veggies and zesty spice, perfect for a light lunch or picnic crowd-pleaser that delivers a burst of Italian-inspired flavor.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook pasta according to package directions.
- Drain and let the pasta cool slightly.
- In a large bowl, combine the pasta, 6 Tbsp. McCormick Salad Supreme spice, and 1 (24 oz.) bottle Wish-Bone Italian salad dressing.
- Add 2 chopped cucumbers and 2 chopped tomatoes, tossing to coat evenly.
- Refrigerate the salad until chilled, then serve cold.
Tips & Substitutions
For a vibrant twist, consider adding bell peppers or olives to the pasta salad. If you prefer a lighter flavor, substitute the Wish-Bone Italian salad dressing with a homemade vinaigrette. You can also use whole grain or gluten-free pasta for a healthier option. Be sure to let the salad chill for at least an hour to allow the flavors to meld beautifully.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this pasta salad as a refreshing side dish at barbecues or picnics. It pairs beautifully with grilled chicken or fish. You can also offer it alongside Nancy'S Linguini Salad for a delightful Italian-themed meal. For a vegetarian option, serve with garlic bread and a mixed greens salad.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If the pasta absorbs too much dressing, you can add a splash of extra dressing or a bit of olive oil before serving to refresh the flavor. This salad is best enjoyed cold, so avoid reheating it.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Ramsey'S Pasta Salad contains roughly 108 calories, with 2g protein, 14g carbohydrates, and 5g fat. It is a good source of vitamin C (16% 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 make this pasta salad ahead of time?
Absolutely! This pasta salad can be made a day in advance. Just be sure to keep it covered in the refrigerator. The flavors will deepen, and it will taste even better the next day. Just give it a good toss before serving to redistribute the dressing.
What can I substitute for McCormick Salad Supreme spice?
If you don't have McCormick Salad Supreme spice, you can create a blend using equal parts of dried oregano, basil, and parsley, along with a pinch of garlic powder and onion powder. This will give you a similar flavor profile while allowing you to customize the spice mix to your liking.
Is this pasta salad suitable for vegans?
To make this pasta salad vegan, simply replace the Wish-Bone Italian salad dressing with a vegan-friendly dressing or a homemade vinaigrette. Always check the ingredient labels to ensure all components meet vegan standards. This way, everyone can enjoy this delicious dish!
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).