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spaghetti salad served
Milica

Quick Spaghetti Salad With Italian Dressing

Spaghetti salad is a delightful fusion of pasta and fresh vegetables, making it a perfect dish for picnics, potlucks, or a light lunch.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Servings: 2 -3 servings
Course: Side Dish
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients Method Video Notes

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

Method
 

  1. Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. 
  2. dd the spaghetti and cook according to the package instructions until al dente, usually about 8–10 minutes.
  3. Once done, drain the spaghetti and rinse it under cold water to halt the cooking process and cool the pasta. 
  4. Halve the cherry tomatoes, dice the cucumber, green bell pepper, and red bell pepper, and finely chop the red onion. 
  5. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled spaghetti with the prepared vegetables.  If you’re adding olives, incorporate them at this stage.
  6. 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.
  7. If desired, sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over the top for an added layer of flavor.

Video

Notes

  • 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.