Another favorite spice cupboard staple for me now is an Italian Salad Dressing Mix. Not everyone in my family likes Italian Dressing, so I don’t always stock a bottle. So, when I decide to make the popular pasta salad recipe below (that my family devours), I often have to run to the store. I was so excited when Alison introduced me to this mix. It will last much longer on my shelf than bottled dressing (especially if you pour it into a mason jar and vacuum seal it), so it can be ready when you need it. It can also be used as a marinade for chicken. I’m thinking it could even work blended into butter to make a spread for french bread…I’ll have to try that one. Here is a great, customizable salad recipe that uses pasta from your food storage and vegetables from your garden (or whichever garden from which Albertson’s gets their veggies! 
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FAVORITE PASTA SALAD
10-12 oz. rotini, cooked, drained, and cooled
Combine and pour over rotini:
1 C. Italian Salad Dressing (made per package directions)
1/2 C. Miracle Whip
Stir in any combination of the following:
cucumber, peeled and diced
shredded carrots
roma or cherry tomatoes, chopped
black olives
purple onion, chopped
pepperoni or salami, quartered
shredded mozzarella cheese
Chill in refrigerator. Serve and enjoy!
Tags: bulk spices, food storage, seasonings
You are so awesome, Kim. I just think you’re incredible and wish I could cook like you do. (and wish I enjoyed it like you do!)
I have put butter and Italian Salad Dressing mix on the tops of my rolls before baking. It is delicious!