Why This Recipe Is a Keeper
Before we dive into the method, here is why this spaghetti salad will become a favorite.
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Only a handful of ingredients. Simple and affordable.
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Make-ahead friendly. Tastes even better the next day.
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Fresh and tangy. The perfect flavor combination.
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Crowd-pleasing. Everyone loves pasta salad.
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Budget-friendly. Pasta and vegetables are inexpensive.
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Perfect for potlucks, barbecues, and gatherings.
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Great for leftovers.
Ingredients
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16 ounces spaghetti
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2 medium Roma tomatoes, diced
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1 medium cucumber, diced
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1 small sweet onion, chopped
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1/2 red pepper, diced
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1 to 2 carrots, finely sliced
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3/4 cup Italian dressing
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2 tablespoons pasta and salad seasoning (such as Johnny’s)
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Salt to taste
Ingredient Notes
Spaghetti: Use standard spaghetti. Break it into shorter segments.
Vegetables: Use fresh Roma tomatoes, cucumber, sweet onion, red pepper, and carrots.
Italian dressing: Use your favorite bottled Italian dressing.
Seasoning: Use pasta and salad seasoning for extra flavor.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Spaghetti
Bring a large saucepan of salted water to a rolling boil. Break the dry spaghetti into three shorter segments and add it to the boiling water. Cook until al dente according to the package directions. Drain immediately and rinse thoroughly under cold running water.
Step 2: Combine the Ingredients
Place the cooled, well-drained spaghetti in a large mixing bowl. Add the diced tomatoes, cucumber, sweet onion, red pepper, and finely sliced carrots.
Step 3: Add the Dressing and Seasoning
Toss the pasta and vegetables until evenly combined. Pour in the Italian dressing, sprinkle with the pasta and salad seasoning, and toss again.
Step 4: Chill and Serve
Taste and add salt as needed. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving.
How to Serve Spaghetti Salad
This fresh, tangy salad is delicious on its own, but a few accompaniments make it even better.
With Grilled Meats: Serve alongside burgers, hot dogs, or grilled chicken.
With a Green Salad: Add to a party platter.
With Fresh Herbs: Sprinkle with parsley or basil.
With Parmesan: Add grated Parmesan on top.
With Crusty Bread: Perfect for sopping up the dressing.
Variations & Tips
Make It with Different Pasta: Use rotini or penne.
Make It with Different Vegetables: Add bell peppers or olives.
Make It with Different Dressing: Use Italian or Greek dressing.
Make It with Cheese: Add feta or mozzarella.
Make It with Herbs: Add fresh basil or oregano.
Make It with Protein: Add chicken or shrimp.
Make It Spicier: Add red pepper flakes.
Make It Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta.
Make It Dairy-Free: Use dairy-free dressing.
Pro Tips for Absolute Success
Rinse the pasta with cold water. This stops the cooking and cools it down.
Chill for at least 1 hour. This allows the flavors to meld.
Taste and adjust seasoning. Add more salt or dressing if needed.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different pasta?
Yes. Rotini or penne can be used.
Can I use a different dressing?
Yes. Greek or vinaigrette dressing can be used.
Can I use a different vegetable?
Yes. Bell peppers or olives can be used.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes. Chill for up to 24 hours before serving.
Can I freeze this salad?
Freezing is not recommended. The texture may change.
How long do leftovers last?
Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Why is my salad dry?
The pasta absorbed the dressing. Add more dressing before serving.
Can I add more vegetables?
Yes. Add bell peppers or olives.
Can I use a different seasoning?
Yes. Italian seasoning can be used.
Can I serve this warm?
This salad is best served cold.
The Beauty of Pasta Salads
There is something deeply satisfying about a fresh, tangy pasta salad that comes together with almost no effort. It is the kind of food that makes people happy. This spaghetti salad is a celebration of all those things.
Keep pasta in your pantry. Keep vegetables in your fridge. Keep dressing and seasoning in your kitchen. This recipe is the reason why.
Recipe Card
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Chill Time: 1 hour
Total Time: Approximately 1 hour 25 minutes
Yield: 8 servings