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Spaghetti Salad

Delightful Spaghetti Salad: A Refreshing Summer Classic

This Italian Spaghetti Salad is a colorful, refreshing dish perfect for summer gatherings.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Chilling Time 1 hour
Total Time 1 hour 25 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Salads
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 320

Ingredients
  

For the Salad
  • 8 oz Thin spaghetti Substitution: Any short pasta can be used.
  • 1 cup Italian salad dressing Tip: Use homemade dressing for a fresher taste.
  • 1 tbsp McCormick’s Salad Supreme Seasoning Substitution: Any all-purpose seasoning or a mix of Italian herbs can work.
  • 1 cup Grated parmesan cheese Substitution: Feta cheese can provide a tangy alternative.
  • 1 cup Cherry tomatoes Substitution: Any small tomato variety can be used; chopped larger tomatoes also work.
  • 1 medium Red bell pepper Substitution: Other bell pepper colors or cucumbers can be used.
  • 1/2 medium Red onion Tip: Soak in water to reduce pungency if desired.
  • 1 medium English cucumber Substitution: Any cucumber variety can be used.
  • 1/2 cup Sliced black olives Substitution: Green olives for a different taste or omit if not preferred.
  • 1 cup Mini pepperoni Substitution: Diced salami or a meat-free alternative for vegetarian salads.

Equipment

  • Large pot
  • Mixing Bowl
  • large spoon

Method
 

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Spaghetti Salad
  1. Begin by boiling a large pot of water and adding a generous pinch of salt. Once it reaches a rolling boil, add the thin spaghetti and cook according to package directions, typically 7-9 minutes, until al dente. Once cooked, check for a tender bite, then drain and set aside.
  2. To quickly cool the spaghetti, rinse it under cold water in the sink. This step halts the cooking process and ensures the noodles are perfect for your spaghetti salad. Allow it to drain thoroughly, ensuring no excess water remains, to keep your salad from becoming soggy.
  3. Transfer the cooled spaghetti to a large mixing bowl. Drizzle in Italian salad dressing, sprinkle with McCormick’s Salad Supreme seasoning, and add the grated parmesan cheese. Toss gently but thoroughly until every strand of spaghetti is beautifully coated, enveloping it in zesty goodness.
  4. Next, add the vibrant cherry tomatoes, red bell pepper, red onion, English cucumber, sliced black olives, and mini pepperoni to the bowl. Use a large spoon to mix them in, ensuring the colorful vegetables are evenly distributed throughout the spaghetti salad, enhancing both flavor and appearance.
  5. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and place the spaghetti salad in the refrigerator. Allow it to chill for at least 1 hour; this resting period allows the flavors to meld beautifully, making for an even tastier dish when served.
  6. When ready to serve, give the spaghetti salad a gentle toss to redistribute the dressing. Dish it out into bowls or onto a serving platter, showcasing the appetizing colors. Enjoy the refreshing taste of the Italian Spaghetti Salad at your next gathering or as a delightful side dish!

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 320kcalCarbohydrates: 32gProtein: 9gFat: 18gSaturated Fat: 3gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 14gCholesterol: 10mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 250mgFiber: 3gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 10mgCalcium: 150mgIron: 1mg

Notes

After cooking, rinse your spaghetti under cold water thoroughly to prevent sticking. Save time by chopping vegetables ahead and tasting before serving to adjust seasonings as needed. Letting your spaghetti salad chill enhances the flavors.

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