What is Salad Supreme Seasoning Made Of? Ingredients & Homemade Recipe

1. Introduction to Salad Supreme Seasoning

Salad Supreme is a widely loved seasoning blend that adds vibrant flavors to various dishes, most notably salads. However, despite its name, this seasoning goes far beyond salads. It’s a multipurpose blend used to enhance pasta dishes, meats, roasted vegetables, and even snacks like popcorn. Its robust mix of ingredients creates a flavor profile that brings a satisfying depth to both simple and complex recipes.

For busy home cooks, Salad Supreme is a must-have in the pantry. The ingredients come together to save time while delivering bold, consistent flavor without the need for complex cooking techniques. The blend itself features key ingredients like Parmesan cheese, paprika, and sesame seeds, all of which work in harmony to elevate dishes from bland to extraordinary.

Moreover, Salad Supreme has a long-standing place in American kitchens. Whether you’re preparing a quick pasta salad for a summer barbecue or looking for a flavorful seasoning to jazz up your grilled chicken, Salad Supreme makes cooking more convenient and tasty. In this article, we’ll explore exactly what makes up this versatile blend, how it has evolved, and how you can even make it yourself at home.

2. History and Background of Salad Supreme Seasoning

The story of Salad Supreme began with McCormick, a company well-known for its wide variety of spices and seasonings. Introduced in the 1950s, Salad Supreme became a go-to solution for home cooks looking to add more flavor to their salads and side dishes. During that period, convenience foods were on the rise, and pre-mixed seasonings like Salad Supreme became incredibly popular for their ease of use and ability to elevate simple meals.

Originally marketed as a salad seasoning, its versatile nature quickly became apparent. As pasta salads, especially cold pasta salads, grew in popularity throughout the 1970s and 1980s, Salad Supreme became a key player in these dishes. Its ability to blend with dressings and coat pasta with ease made it a pantry staple.

Over time, people began to use it for much more than salads. Home cooks sprinkled it on everything from roasted vegetables to grilled meats. As a result, its appeal has lasted for decades. Its bold, distinct flavor and ease of use continue to make it a favorite today. While McCormick’s version remains the most famous, several other brands offer similar blends.

3. Primary Ingredients in Salad Supreme Seasoning

Salad Supreme contains a mixture of both common and specialized ingredients. Each ingredient contributes to its unique flavor profile, making it the versatile seasoning it is today. Let’s take a closer look at the primary components of Salad Supreme and what each one brings to the mix:

• Romano Cheese: Romano cheese gives Salad Supreme its distinctive salty and savory base. The cheese adds a touch of umami that complements fresh and cooked dishes alike. Its fine texture helps it blend seamlessly with other ingredients.

• Paprika: Paprika is a key element in Salad Supreme. It not only adds a bright, warm red color to the seasoning but also contributes mild heat and sweetness. Paprika is what gives the seasoning its distinct visual appeal, as well as a subtle earthiness.

• Garlic: Garlic powder offers a sharp, savory flavor that deepens the overall taste of Salad Supreme. Garlic pairs well with Romano cheese and paprika, amplifying the savory notes in both cold and hot dishes.

• Sesame Seeds: Sesame seeds introduce a rich, nutty taste to Salad Supreme. Their slight crunch adds texture, making the seasoning perfect for topping salads and other dishes where a bit of contrast in texture is needed.

• Poppy Seeds: Poppy seeds bring both texture and a subtle nutty flavor to the blend. While their flavor is mild, they contribute a slight crunch and an added visual appeal to the dish.

• Celery Seed: Celery seed offers a bitter, herbal note that rounds out the blend. The earthy flavor of celery seed balances the rich flavors from the cheese and garlic, adding a bit of complexity to the seasoning.

• Salt and Black Pepper: Salt enhances all the other flavors, making each ingredient stand out. Meanwhile, black pepper provides mild heat and depth.

• Red Pepper (optional): Red pepper flakes can add heat to Salad Supreme for those who enjoy a spicier blend. The red pepper is optional but often included to give dishes a slight kick without overpowering them.

Together, these ingredients create a seasoning that is both savory and flavorful. The balance of cheese, spices, and seeds ensures that it complements a wide variety of dishes, from pasta to meats and vegetables. Each component plays a key role in enhancing both flavor and texture.

4. Nutritional Information and Health Considerations

When using Salad Supreme, it’s important to understand its nutritional content, especially if you are mindful of your diet. While this seasoning blend can certainly boost flavor, it does come with some nutritional elements to consider.

First, a typical serving size of Salad Supreme is about one teaspoon. This small amount contains approximately 15 calories, with most of these calories coming from the Romano cheese and seeds. However, it’s the sodium content that deserves attention. With about 100 milligrams of sodium per teaspoon, you’ll want to use the seasoning sparingly if you’re monitoring your salt intake.

That said, Salad Supreme also offers some nutritional benefits. The sesame seeds and poppy seeds provide a small amount of healthy fats and fiber. These seeds also contain important minerals like calcium and magnesium, which can support overall health. Additionally, the Romano cheese is a good source of calcium and protein, both of which contribute to strong bones and muscles.

While the store-bought version does contain preservatives to prolong shelf life, making a homemade version allows you to control what goes into the seasoning. By creating your own blend, you can reduce the sodium content or opt for fresh, organic ingredients. This way, you can enjoy the benefits of Salad Supreme while keeping your health goals in mind.

5. How to Make Homemade Salad Supreme Seasoning

If you love the flavor of Salad Supreme but want more control over the ingredients, you’re in luck. Making your own homemade version is easy, and it allows you to adjust the recipe to your taste preferences or dietary needs. Here’s a simple, customizable recipe for making Salad Supreme seasoning at home.

Ingredients:

• 2 tablespoons grated Romano cheese (or Parmesan)
• 1 tablespoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon sesame seeds
• 1 teaspoon poppy seeds
• 1 teaspoon celery seed
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon salt (optional)
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)

Instructions:

1. Mix all the ingredients together in a small bowl until they are well blended.
2. Stir the mixture thoroughly until everything is evenly distributed.
3. Transfer the blend into an airtight container, such as a spice jar or a small glass container.
4. Store the seasoning in a cool, dry place away from sunlight.

This homemade version can last up to three months if stored properly. You’ll notice that the recipe is incredibly flexible. For instance, if you’re watching your sodium intake, you can easily skip the salt. If you prefer more spice, you can increase the amount of red pepper flakes. You can also experiment by adding herbs like oregano or thyme to give the seasoning a more Mediterranean flair.

Another advantage of making your own Salad Supreme is that you can avoid preservatives and artificial ingredients. Homemade seasoning offers fresher flavors and a cleaner ingredient list, making it ideal for those who want to stick to whole foods.

Once you have your homemade Salad Supreme seasoning ready, you can use it in the same way you would use the store-bought version. Sprinkle it on salads, pasta, meats, or roasted vegetables to give your dishes an extra layer of flavor.

6. Common Dishes that Use Salad Supreme Seasoning

Salad Supreme is not just for salads. Its bold, savory flavor makes it an excellent seasoning for a wide range of dishes. Here are some of the most common ways people use Salad Supreme in their everyday cooking:

Pasta Salad with Salad Supreme

Pasta salad is one of the most popular dishes to feature Salad Supreme. To make a simple pasta salad, cook your preferred type of pasta (rotini or penne work best) and mix it with fresh vegetables like cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, and bell peppers. Toss the salad with a bit of Italian dressing and sprinkle generously with Salad Supreme. The seasoning adds a pop of flavor that perfectly complements the freshness of the vegetables and the tanginess of the dressing.

Grilled Chicken with Salad Supreme

Another common use for Salad Supreme is as a seasoning for grilled chicken. After seasoning the chicken with olive oil, sprinkle it with Salad Supreme before grilling. The sesame seeds and paprika create a savory crust on the chicken, while the Romano cheese adds a rich, salty finish. Pair it with roasted vegetables or a serving of pasta to create a well-rounded meal.

Roasted Vegetables with Salad Supreme

If you love roasted vegetables, Salad Supreme is an excellent way to add flavor. Simply toss vegetables like carrots, zucchini, or sweet potatoes in olive oil, sprinkle them with Salad Supreme, and roast them in the oven. The seasoning not only enhances the flavor but also adds a slight crunch, thanks to the sesame and poppy seeds.

Creative Uses for Salad Supreme

Salad Supreme can be used in even more inventive ways. For example, sprinkle it on popcorn for a savory snack, or use it as a topping for garlic bread before toasting. You can even sprinkle it on pizza crust before baking for a flavorful twist. The possibilities are endless!

These dishes show just how versatile Salad Supreme can be in the kitchen. Whether you’re preparing a light summer salad or a hearty grilled meal, this seasoning can take your dish to the next level.

7. Popular Substitutes for Salad Supreme Seasoning

If you ever run out of Salad Supreme seasoning or want to try something different, there are several substitutes you can use to achieve similar flavors. Here are a few options:

• Everything Bagel Seasoning: This popular blend contains sesame seeds, poppy seeds, garlic, and salt, making it a good alternative to Salad Supreme. While it lacks the cheese and paprika, you can add grated Parmesan to get closer to the original flavor.
• Italian Seasoning with Parmesan: While Italian seasoning doesn’t include sesame seeds or paprika, it can serve as a good base for many dishes. Add grated Parmesan cheese to the mix to capture the cheesy, savory essence of Salad Supreme.
• Homemade Blend: You can easily create your own substitute at home using common spices. Combine paprika, garlic powder, sesame seeds, and poppy seeds with some grated cheese to replicate the taste of Salad Supreme. Feel free to modify the ingredient quantities to match your personal flavor preferences.
• Store-bought Blends: Some grocery stores carry their own versions of Salad Supreme under different names. Look for any seasoning blend that contains a mix of cheese, sesame seeds, and paprika.

These substitutes offer flexibility if you don’t have Salad Supreme on hand or want to experiment with different flavors.

8. Where to Buy Salad Supreme Seasoning

Salad Supreme is easy to find at most grocery stores. It’s typically located in the spice aisle alongside other seasoning blends like taco seasoning, Italian seasoning, and everything bagel seasoning. McCormick is the most popular brand that sells Salad Supreme, but you may also find store brands that offer similar products.

If you prefer online shopping, Salad Supreme is available on major e-commerce platforms such as Amazon, Walmart, and Target. Purchasing online is convenient if you want to buy in bulk or if it’s not available in your local grocery store. You can even set up subscription services through some retailers to ensure you always have Salad Supreme stocked in your pantry.

If you’re someone who prefers fresh, homemade products, making your own Salad Supreme is a great option. Not only do you get to control the ingredients, but you can also adjust the flavors to fit your personal preferences.

9. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is Salad Supreme seasoning made of?
Salad Supreme is made from a combination of Romano cheese, paprika, garlic powder, sesame seeds, poppy seeds, celery seed, black pepper, and salt. Some variations also include red pepper flakes for added heat.

Is Salad Supreme gluten-free?
Most commercial versions of Salad Supreme are gluten-free, but it’s always a good idea to check the packaging to be sure. If you’re making a homemade version, you can control the ingredients and ensure it’s gluten-free.

What are some alternatives I can use instead of Salad Supreme seasoning?
If you don’t have Salad Supreme on hand, you can substitute it with everything bagel seasoning or Italian seasoning with added Parmesan cheese. Alternatively, you can make your own blend using garlic powder, paprika, sesame seeds, and poppy seeds.

Can you make Salad Supreme at home?
Yes! Making Salad Supreme at home is easy and allows you to customize the blend. Simply combine Romano cheese, paprika, garlic powder, sesame seeds, poppy seeds, and celery seed for a homemade version of this seasoning.

Does Salad Supreme contain dairy?
Yes, Salad Supreme contains Romano or Parmesan cheese, which is a dairy product. If you are dairy-free, you can try substituting nutritional yeast for the cheese in a homemade version.

10. Conclusion

Salad Supreme seasoning is a versatile and flavorful blend that has earned its place in many kitchens. From salads and pasta to meats and vegetables, this seasoning adds depth and richness to a wide variety of dishes. Its unique combination of Romano cheese, sesame seeds, and paprika makes it a go-to for both quick meals and elaborate recipes.

Whether you choose to buy it from the store or make your own version at home, Salad Supreme can transform your cooking. The seasoning’s bold flavor can elevate simple ingredients into something truly delicious. And with so many creative ways to use it, it’s an essential ingredient for any cook looking to add flavor without a lot of fuss.

If you haven’t yet tried Salad Supreme, now is the time. Pick up a bottle at your local grocery store or whip up a homemade batch and see how it can take your dishes to the next level. From pasta salads to grilled chicken, this seasoning is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.