Mccormick Salad Supreme Spaghetti Salad Recipe With Italian: Zesty Herb-Packed Picnic Delight

This spaghetti salad brings vibrant flavors to any gathering with its perfect blend of herbs and tangy dressing.

The combination of al dente pasta, crisp vegetables, and zesty seasoning creates a dish that’s both refreshing and satisfying.

Ingredients for Mccormick Salad Supreme Spaghetti Salad Recipe with Italian

Bright pasta, crisp veggies, and bold seasonings make this dish a crowd-pleaser.

The seasoning packets from McCormick are non-negotiable here—they deliver that signature tangy-herb profile everyone loves. Find them in the spice aisle at any major grocery chain. For the cheese, sharp cheddar holds up best against the acidity (pre-shredded melts weird, so block cheese is worth the extra minute to cube). Fresh vegetables are key—look for firm, vibrant-colored produce at peak ripeness.

No Salad Supreme packet? Mix 1 tbsp each of garlic powder, onion powder, and celery seed with 2 tsp paprika and 1 tsp each salt and sugar for a close approximation. The Italian dressing can be homemade—whisk olive oil, vinegar, and Italian seasoning. For extra crunch, add broccoli florets or snap peas (blanch them first).

This keeps well for 3-4 days refrigerated in an airtight container. The flavors actually improve overnight. Not suitable for freezing—the pasta gets mushy. Best served chilled, so make it ahead for gatherings.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Mccormick Salad Supreme Spaghetti Salad With Italian

This method ensures every bite delivers bold, well-balanced flavors with ideal texture.

Step 1: Cook and Cool the Spaghetti Noodles

Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the 12 oz Spaghetti Noodles and cook according to package directions until al dente—usually about 8-10 minutes. The pasta should have a slight resistance when bitten, as it will continue to soften when dressed.

Drain immediately and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process. This also removes excess starch that could make the salad gummy. Shake off as much water as possible, then transfer to a large bowl. Drizzle with the 2 tbsp Vegetable Oil and toss to prevent sticking as it cools completely.

Step 2: Prepare the Fresh Vegetables

While the noodles cool, halve the 2 cups Cherry Tomatoes. Peel the 1 whole Cucumber if desired, then dice into ½-inch pieces. Thinly slice the 0.5 whole Red Onion, separating the rings for even distribution.

Core and seed the 1 whole Green Bell Pepper, then dice into similar-sized pieces. Drain and slice the 1 can Black Olives. Cube the 1 cup Cheddar Cheese into ¼-inch pieces. Having all vegetables uniformly cut ensures every forkful contains a balanced mix of textures and flavors.

Step 3: Create the Seasoned Dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together the 1 cup Italian Dressing, 2 tbsp White Vinegar, 1 tsp Sugar, 1 package McCormick Salad Supreme Seasoning, and 1 tsp McCormick Italian Seasoning. Continue whisking for 30-45 seconds until the seasoning blends are fully dissolved and the dressing appears slightly thickened.

The vinegar and sugar balance the tanginess of the Italian dressing while the seasoning blends add depth. This custom dressing ties all the components together with layers of herbaceous flavor. Taste and adjust sweetness if needed, though the Salad Supreme typically provides perfect balance.

Step 4: Combine All Components

Add all the prepared vegetables and cheese to the bowl with the cooled spaghetti noodles. Pour the seasoned dressing over the top. Using a large spoon or tongs, gently fold everything together until the dressing coats every component evenly.

This step requires a light touch to avoid breaking the pasta or crushing the tomatoes. The salad should glisten with dressing but not be soggy. If it appears dry after initial mixing, let it sit for 10-15 minutes to allow the noodles to absorb some dressing before adding more.

Step 5: Chill and Serve

Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, though 2-3 hours allows the flavors to meld perfectly. The chilling time is crucial—it lets the noodles absorb the dressing and the seasonings penetrate all ingredients.

Before serving, give the salad another gentle toss and check the consistency. If it seems thick, stir in a small amount of water to refresh the dressing. Serve chilled in bowls or on a platter, garnished with additional seasoning blend if desired. This dish keeps well refrigerated for up to 3 days.

Storing and Reheating This Dish

🍳 Refrigerator Storage

To keep your McCormick Salad Supreme spaghetti salad fresh, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This will help retain its vibrant flavors and prevent the pasta from drying out. Properly stored, it will stay fresh for 3-4 days. For best results, give it a quick stir before serving to redistribute the dressing and herbs.

❄️ Freezer Storage

While freezing is not ideal for pasta salads due to texture changes, you can freeze this dish for 2-3 months if needed. Place the salad in a freezer-safe, airtight container or heavy-duty freezer bag, removing as much air as possible. Keep in mind that the vegetables may soften slightly upon thawing, so it’s best to enjoy it fresh when possible.

🔥 Reheating Methods

This salad is typically served cold, but if you prefer it slightly warmed, use the microwave. Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring gently between each, until it reaches your desired temperature. Avoid overcooking, as this can make the pasta mushy. For a smoky twist, you can warm it in a smoker at 225°F for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally.

✨ Quality Preservation

To preserve the salad’s quality, avoid adding extra dressing before storing, as it can make the pasta soggy. If the salad seems dry after refrigeration, toss in a little extra Italian dressing or a splash of olive oil before serving. When freezing, thaw overnight in the refrigerator for the best texture, and drain any excess liquid before reheating or serving.