Description
A refreshing and colorful Spaghetti Salad recipe perfect for summer picnics or as a light side dish. This cold pasta salad combines al dente spaghetti with fresh vegetables, tangy Italian dressing, and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese for a flavorful and easy-to-make meal.
Ingredients
Scale
Salad
- 12 oz spaghetti, broken in half and cooked al dente
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cucumber, diced
- 1/2 cup red bell pepper, diced
- 1/2 cup black olives, sliced
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup shredded Parmesan cheese
Dressing and Seasoning
- 1/2 cup Italian salad dressing (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley or basil (optional)
Instructions
- Cook Spaghetti: Cook the spaghetti according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain well, then rinse under cold water to stop cooking and cool the pasta.
- Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, add the cooled spaghetti, cherry tomatoes, diced cucumber, diced red bell pepper, sliced black olives, finely chopped red onion, and shredded Parmesan cheese.
- Add Dressing and Seasoning: Pour the Italian salad dressing over the salad mixture. Sprinkle in the Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper as desired.
- Toss and Chill: Gently toss all ingredients together until everything is evenly coated with the dressing and seasonings. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
- Garnish and Serve: Before serving, optionally garnish with freshly chopped parsley or basil for added freshness and aroma.
Notes
- For variation, add sliced pepperoni, cubed mozzarella cheese, or marinated artichoke hearts to enhance flavor and texture.
- This salad can be made ahead of time; give it a quick toss before serving as the dressing may settle.
- Use gluten-free pasta to make this recipe suitable for gluten sensitivities.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Boiling then No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 4 g
- Sodium: 360 mg
- Fat: 12 g
- Saturated Fat: 3 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 34 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 7 g
- Cholesterol: 10 mg
