Looking for a refreshing pasta dish perfect for warm weather? Cold Spaghetti Salad combines tender pasta with fresh vegetables, savory dressing, and bold flavors. Whether you’re planning a picnic, potluck, or light dinner, this salad is simple to prepare and sure to impress.
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Cold Spaghetti Salad: A Delicious, Easy Pasta Dish for Warm Days
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This cold spaghetti salad is a refreshing, flavorful pasta dish perfect for warm weather. Packed with fresh veggies, zesty dressing, and tender spaghetti, it’s ideal for picnics, potlucks, or light lunches.
Ingredients
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8 oz spaghetti pasta (cooked and cooled)
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1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
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1/2 cup black olives, sliced
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1/2 cup diced bell peppers (red or yellow)
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1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
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1/2 cup cucumber, diced
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1/2 cup shredded mozzarella or cubed cheese (optional)
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1/4 cup pepperoni slices or salami (optional)
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1/4 cup fresh basil or parsley, chopped
Dressing:
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1/4 cup olive oil
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3 tablespoons red wine vinegar
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1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
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1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
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1 clove garlic, minced
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Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
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Cook spaghetti according to package instructions. Drain and rinse under cold water until cooled.
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In a large bowl, combine pasta with cherry tomatoes, olives, bell peppers, red onion, cucumber, cheese, and pepperoni if using.
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In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, Italian seasoning, garlic, salt, and pepper.
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Pour dressing over the pasta mixture and toss gently to combine.
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Chill salad in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour before serving to allow flavors to meld.
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Garnish with fresh basil or parsley before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minute
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Lunch Recipes
- Method: Tossed Salad
- Cuisine: Mediterranean-Inspired
