Description
Italian Spaghetti Salad is a colorful and refreshing dish that combines tender pasta, crunchy vegetables, and tangy Italian dressing. Perfect for picnics, potlucks, or as a side dish, this easy-to-make salad is packed with flavor and can be customized with your favorite toppings.
Ingredients
For the salad:
-
8 oz spaghetti (half a box), cooked and cooled
-
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
-
1/2 cup cucumber, diced
-
1/2 cup red bell pepper, diced
-
1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
-
1/2 cup black olives, sliced (optional)
-
1/2 cup pepperoni slices, quartered (optional)
-
1/2 cup mozzarella cheese, cubed or shredded (optional)
For the dressing:
-
1/4 cup olive oil
-
1/4 cup red wine vinegar
-
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
-
1 teaspoon dried oregano
-
1 teaspoon dried basil
-
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
-
1/4 teaspoon onion powder
-
Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon honey or sugar (optional for a sweeter dressing)
Instructions
-
Cook the spaghetti: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook spaghetti according to package instructions (9-11 minutes) until al dente. Drain and rinse with cold water to cool.
-
Prepare the vegetables: While the pasta is cooking, chop the vegetables (cherry tomatoes, cucumber, bell pepper, red onion) and any additional toppings.
-
Make the dressing: In a small bowl or jar, whisk together olive oil, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, oregano, basil, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, and honey (if using). Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
-
Assemble the salad: In a large bowl, combine the cooled spaghetti with the chopped vegetables, olives, pepperoni, and mozzarella (if using).
-
Add the dressing: Pour the prepared dressing over the pasta and vegetables. Toss gently to coat everything evenly.
-
Chill and serve: Refrigerate the salad for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. Serve cold, optionally garnishing with extra herbs or Parmesan cheese.
Notes
Feel free to add grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas for additional protein.Use gluten-free pasta for a gluten-free version.Customize the salad with your favorite vegetables like zucchini or roasted red peppers.Adjust the sweetness of the dressing by adding more honey or sugar if desired.
