This delicious spaghetti salad is perfect for any occasion, from picnics to potlucks. It’s fresh, vibrant, and packed with flavors that everyone will love. The combination of pasta and fresh vegetables, topped with a zesty dressing, makes this dish a crowd-pleaser.
Why Make This Recipe
You should make this spaghetti salad because it’s easy, quick, and can be served cold, making it ideal for warm weather gatherings. It’s a great way to enjoy seasonal vegetables and can be prepared ahead of time, allowing you to spend more time with your guests. Plus, it’s versatile—you can customize it with your favorite ingredients!
How to Make Spaghetti Salad
Ingredients:
- 12 oz spaghetti broken into smaller pieces
- 1 pint cherry tomatoes halved
- 1 medium cucumber diced
- 1 green bell pepper diced
- 1 small red onion finely diced
- 1 can 2.25 oz sliced black olives, drained
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup olive oil
- 1/4 cup red wine vinegar
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon granulated sugar
- 3/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Directions:
Cook the spaghetti: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the spaghetti according to the package directions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water until completely cooled. Drain well.
Prepare the vegetables: While the pasta cooks, chop the tomatoes, cucumber, bell pepper, and red onion. Add them to a large mixing bowl along with the black olives and Parmesan.
Make the dressing: In a small bowl or jar, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, lemon juice, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, sugar, salt, and black pepper until well combined.
Combine everything: Add the cooled spaghetti to the bowl with the vegetables. Pour the dressing over the top and toss gently until the pasta and vegetables are evenly coated.
Chill: Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving. Give the salad another good toss just before serving. If it seems a little dry after chilling, add a small splash of olive oil and vinegar.
How to Serve Spaghetti Salad
Serve this spaghetti salad chilled as a side dish to your favorite grilled meats or as a light main course. It pairs well with bread or can be enjoyed on its own. Garnish with extra Parmesan cheese or fresh herbs for added flavor.
How to Store Spaghetti Salad
Store any leftover spaghetti salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It should stay fresh for about 3 days. If it seems dry, stir in a little more olive oil or vinegar before serving.
Tips to Make Spaghetti Salad
- Use whole grain or gluten-free spaghetti for a healthier option.
- Feel free to add or substitute other vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, or zucchini.
- If you want a protein boost, add cooked chicken or shrimp.
Variation (if any)
You can easily adapt this recipe by adding ingredients like feta cheese, arugula, or even fresh herbs like basil or parsley for extra flavor.
FAQs
1. Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, you can use any pasta shape you like, such as fusilli or penne.
2. Is this salad suitable for vegetarian diets?
Absolutely! This salad is vegetarian-friendly and packed with healthy vegetables.
3. How long can I keep the salad in the fridge?
The salad stays fresh for about 3 days in the refrigerator.
Spaghetti Salad
Ingredients
Method
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the spaghetti according to the package directions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water until completely cooled. Drain well.
- While the pasta cooks, chop the tomatoes, cucumber, bell pepper, and red onion. Add them to a large mixing bowl along with the black olives and Parmesan.
- In a small bowl or jar, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, lemon juice, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, sugar, salt, and black pepper until well combined.
- Add the cooled spaghetti to the bowl with the vegetables. Pour the dressing over the top and toss gently until the pasta and vegetables are evenly coated.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving. Give the salad another good toss just before serving. If it seems a little dry after chilling, add a small splash of olive oil and vinegar.
