Spaghetti salad is a delightful fusion of pasta and fresh vegetables, making it a perfect dish for picnics, potlucks, or a light lunch.
This vegetarian version combines the classic flavors of spaghetti with a medley of crisp veggies, all tossed in a tangy Italian dressing.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This spaghetti salad offers a refreshing twist on traditional pasta dishes. The combination of al dente spaghetti with crunchy vegetables creates a satisfying texture contrast, while the Italian dressing infuses the dish with a zesty flavor.
It’s quick to prepare, making it ideal for busy days, and it’s versatile enough to serve as a main course or a side dish. Plus, it’s a crowd-pleaser that’s sure to be a hit at gatherings.
Ingredients
- 12 ounces spaghetti
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cucumber, diced
- 1 green bell pepper, diced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 small red onion, finely chopped
- 1 cup Italian dressing
- 1/2 cup black olives, sliced (optional)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Instructions
Cook the Spaghetti
Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti and cook according to the package instructions until al dente, usually about 8–10 minutes. Once done, drain the spaghetti and rinse it under cold water to halt the cooking process and cool the pasta. This step ensures the pasta doesn’t become mushy in the salad.
Prepare the Vegetables
While the pasta cooks, prepare the vegetables. Halve the cherry tomatoes, dice the cucumber, green bell pepper, and red bell pepper, and finely chop the red onion. If you’re including black olives, slice them accordingly. Having all the vegetables ready makes assembly straightforward.
Combine Pasta and Vegetables
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled spaghetti with the prepared vegetables. The vibrant colors of the veggies against the pasta make for an appealing presentation. If you’re adding olives, incorporate them at this stage.
Add the Dressing
Pour the Italian dressing over the pasta and vegetable mixture. Using tongs or a large spoon, toss everything together to ensure the dressing evenly coats the pasta and vegetables. The dressing not only adds flavor but also helps keep the salad moist.
Season and Garnish
Taste the salad and season with salt and freshly ground black pepper as needed. If desired, sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over the top for an added layer of flavor. For those who prefer a dairy-free option, you can omit the cheese or substitute it with a plant-based alternative.
Chill Before Serving
For the best flavor, cover the bowl with plastic wrap or transfer the salad to an airtight container and refrigerate for at least one hour before serving. Chilling allows the flavors to meld together, resulting in a more cohesive taste. However, if you’re short on time, the salad can be served immediately at room temperature.
Tips and Variations
- Make It Vegan: To make this salad vegan, simply omit the Parmesan cheese or replace it with a vegan cheese alternative.
- Add Protein: Incorporate chickpeas, kidney beans, or diced tofu to boost the protein content, making the salad more filling.
- Herb Infusion: Fresh herbs like basil, parsley, or dill can enhance the salad’s flavor. Add a handful of chopped herbs just before serving for a fresh, aromatic touch.
- Dressing Variations: While Italian dressing is traditional, feel free to experiment with other dressings like balsamic vinaigrette or a lemon herb dressing for a different flavor profile.
- Gluten-Free Option: Substitute regular spaghetti with gluten-free pasta to accommodate dietary restrictions.
- Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Before serving again, give the salad a good stir and adjust the seasoning if necessary.
This vegetarian spaghetti salad is a versatile and delicious dish that’s easy to prepare with simple ingredients. Whether you’re serving it as a side dish at a barbecue or enjoying it as a light main course, it’s sure to be a hit. Its adaptability allows you to customize it to your liking, making it a staple recipe in your collection.
