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Spaghetti Salad

This quick and colorful Spaghetti Salad is perfect for busy weeknights and potlucks, packed with fresh ingredients and easy to customize.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 7 servings
Course: Salad, Side Dish
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 300

Ingredients
  

Pasta and Vegetables
  • 12 oz spaghetti broken in half works better for salads
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1 medium cucumber, diced
  • 1/2 medium red onion, thinly sliced soak in cold water 5 minutes for milder flavor
  • 1 cup black olives, sliced
  • 1 cup cubed salami or pepperoni (optional) omit for vegetarian
  • 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella or a mix of mozzarella and cheddar
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley or basil
Dressing
  • 1/2 cup extra-virgin olive oil
  • 1/4 cup red wine vinegar
  • 2 tbsp Dijon mustard
  • 1 tbsp honey or sugar adjust to taste
  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Cook the pasta. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water until the pasta is cool.
  2. Prep the veggies. While the pasta cooks, chop the tomatoes, cucumber, bell pepper, and onion. Slice the olives and cube the salami or pepperoni if using.
  3. Mix the dressing. In a jar or bowl, whisk together olive oil, red wine vinegar, Dijon, honey, oregano, garlic, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Taste and adjust as needed.
  4. Combine. In a large bowl, toss the cooled spaghetti with the veggies, meat (if using), shredded cheese, and about two-thirds of the dressing. Add the grated Parmesan and chopped herbs, then toss gently.
Chill
  1. Cover and refrigerate at least 30 minutes for the flavors to marry. Alternatively, let it sit at room temperature for 10–15 minutes.
Final Touch
  1. Before serving, give it another toss and add more dressing if it looks dry. Taste and adjust salt and pepper.

Notes

Add more veggies for bulk or reduce cheese for a lighter version. For a creamier dressing, swap half the oil for Greek yogurt or add mayonnaise. Substitute gluten-free pasta for a gluten-free option.