“Mouthwatering McCormick Pasta Salad Recipe for Your Next Picnic”
Introduction
Pasta salad is a versatile dish that makes for a perfect option when you’re in need of a quick, flavorful, and refreshing meal. One recipe that never disappoints is the McCormick pasta salad. Bursting with delicious flavors and vibrant colors, this recipe is a crowd-pleaser and a perfect addition to any picnic or summer gathering. Whether you’re a fan of pasta or just looking for a new dish to try, this McCormick pasta salad recipe is a must-try!
Ingredients
To create this delectable McCormick pasta salad, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 1 pound of pasta (any variety of your choice)
- 1/2 cup of extra-virgin olive oil
- 2 tablespoons of McCormick Italian Seasoning
- 1 tablespoon of red wine vinegar
- 1 teaspoon of sugar
- 1 teaspoon of salt
- 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper
- 1 cup of cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup of cucumber, diced
- 1/2 cup of red onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup of fresh basil, chiffonade
Directions
- Cook the pasta: Fill a large pot with water and bring it to a boil. Add salt to the boiling water and cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the cooked pasta and rinse it with cold water to stop the cooking process. Set aside.
Prepare the dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the extra-virgin olive oil, McCormick Italian Seasoning, red wine vinegar, sugar, salt, and black pepper. Set aside.
Combine the ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, add the cooked pasta, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, and fresh basil. Pour the dressing over the ingredients and toss gently to coat everything evenly.
Let it chill: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and place it in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour, allowing the flavors to meld together and the pasta salad to chill.
Serve and enjoy: Once chilled, give the pasta salad a quick toss and transfer it to a serving dish. Garnish with additional fresh basil if desired. Serve chilled and enjoy!
FAQ
Q: Can I use a different type of pasta for this recipe?
A: Absolutely! This McCormick pasta salad recipe works well with any type of pasta. Feel free to choose your favorite variety or use whatever you have on hand.
Q: Can I make this pasta salad in advance?
A: Yes, you can make this pasta salad ahead of time. It actually tastes even better after sitting in the refrigerator for a few hours, allowing the flavors to develop. Just remember to give it a gentle toss before serving.
Q: Can I add additional ingredients to this pasta salad?
A: Of course! This recipe serves as a great base, and you can add or customize it according to your taste preferences. You can incorporate ingredients like olives, bell peppers, feta cheese, or grilled chicken to enhance the flavors and textures of the salad.
Q: How long can I store leftovers of this pasta salad?
A: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. However, the texture may change slightly, with the pasta absorbing more of the dressing over time. Give it a good toss before enjoying the leftovers.
Q: Can I make this pasta salad vegan-friendly?
A: Absolutely! To make this pasta salad vegan-friendly, choose a pasta variety that doesn’t contain eggs and omit any animal-based ingredients such as cheese. The dressing, herbs, and vegetables used in this recipe are all vegan-friendly.
With its vibrant flavors and easy preparation, this McCormick pasta salad is sure to become a staple in your recipe collection. Enjoy the refreshing combination of pasta, tangy dressing, and crisp vegetables for a perfect meal to enjoy on a sunny day or share with friends and family at your next picnic. Give it a try and savor the deliciousness!
