A refreshing and vibrant spaghetti salad is a perfect choice for any occasion, from casual family dinners to summer gatherings. This dish combines the light texture of pasta with the crunch of fresh vegetables, creating a balance of flavors and colors that appeal to everyone. It’s easy to prepare, can be served cold or at room temperature, and keeps well for picnics or lunchboxes.
Introduction
This spaghetti salad is a fusion of Mediterranean ingredients and a simple homemade dressing that brings all the flavors together. The blend of tomatoes, cucumbers, bell peppers, onions, and olives gives this salad a beautiful presentation and a delightful taste. The dressing, made from olive oil, vinegar, and herbs, lightly coats the pasta and vegetables, keeping the dish fresh and tangy.
It’s a great alternative to heavier pasta dishes and an excellent way to include more vegetables in your meals. You can also customize it based on what’s available in your kitchen—swap in your favorite veggies, add a sprinkle of cheese, or include grilled chicken for extra protein.
Ingredients
- 400 g of spaghetti
- 1 cucumber, diced
- 1 green bell pepper, chopped
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped
- 1 small red onion, diced
- 200 g cherry tomatoes, halved
- 100 g black olives, sliced
- 100 g cubed cheese (optional, such as mozzarella or cheddar)
- 1 cup broccoli florets (lightly steamed or raw, optional)
For the dressing:
- 80 ml olive oil
- 3 tablespoons white or apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon honey or sugar
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Juice of half a lemon
Steps
- Cook the pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process. Let it cool completely. - Prepare the vegetables
While the pasta cools, chop the cucumber, bell peppers, red onion, and cherry tomatoes. Slice the olives and cube the cheese if using. If you prefer a mix of textures, lightly steam the broccoli florets for one minute, then rinse them under cold water. - Make the dressing
In a small bowl or jar, combine olive oil, vinegar, mustard, honey, oregano, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Whisk or shake until the dressing is well blended. Adjust the seasoning according to your taste. - Assemble the salad
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta with all the chopped vegetables and cheese. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss until everything is evenly coated. Make sure the dressing reaches all the noodles for maximum flavor. - Chill and serve
Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving. This helps the flavors meld together and makes the salad even more refreshing.
Notes and Substitutes
- For extra freshness, add chopped parsley or basil before serving.
- If you like a spicy kick, sprinkle a few chili flakes or add diced jalapeños.
- To make the dish vegan, skip the cheese or use a plant-based version.
- You can replace spaghetti with any other pasta shape such as rotini, penne, or fusilli for a different texture.
- A drizzle of balsamic vinegar can be added for a deeper, slightly sweet flavor.
Storage
This spaghetti salad stores very well. Keep it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Before serving, give it a gentle toss and, if needed, add a small splash of olive oil or lemon juice to refresh the flavor. It’s not recommended to freeze this dish as the vegetables may lose their crunch.
Preparation and Serving Time
- Preparation time: 25 minutes
- Cooking time: 10 minutes
- Chilling time: 30 minutes
- Total time: About 1 hour
- Serves: 6 to 8 portions
Final Touch
Spaghetti salad is one of those dishes that look as good as they taste. The vibrant colors of the vegetables mixed with the golden pasta make it perfect for sharing at picnics, potlucks, or family meals. Each bite offers a refreshing mix of flavors—the sweetness of cherry tomatoes, the crunch of cucumbers, and the mild tang of the dressing.
It’s simple, fresh, and full of life. Whether served on its own or as a side dish with grilled meat or seafood, this salad never fails to impress. Once you try it, you’ll find yourself coming back to it again and again, especially during warm days when you crave something light yet satisfying.