Italian Spaghetti Salad

Italian Spaghetti Salad is a bright, easy pasta salad that works for picnics and quick dinners.

Introduction: Italian Spaghetti Salad

Italian Spaghetti Salad is simple, fresh, and ready in about 30 minutes after chilling.
If you want another pasta salad idea, try this California spaghetti salad for a different flavor mix.

Why make this recipe: Italian Spaghetti Salad

Italian Spaghetti Salad is quick to make and uses basic ingredients you likely have.
It feeds a crowd, keeps well, and tastes better after a short chill.

How to make Italian Spaghetti Salad

Italian Spaghetti Salad comes together in three clear steps: cook, mix, and chill.
Cook the pasta, toss with vegetables and cheese, then dress and chill for at least 30 minutes.

Ingredients: Italian Spaghetti Salad

Ingredients are simple and fresh for Italian Spaghetti Salad.

• 8 ounces spaghetti
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 cup cucumber, diced
• 1/2 cup red onion, diced
• 1/2 cup black olives, sliced
• 1/2 cup mozzarella cheese, cubed
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste

If you want a heartier plate, pair the salad with roasted sides like the 30-minute roasted broccoli sweet potato chickpea salad.

Directions: Italian Spaghetti Salad

Follow these steps to make Italian Spaghetti Salad.

• Cook the spaghetti according to package instructions; drain and let cool.
• In a large bowl, combine the cooked spaghetti, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, olives, and mozzarella cheese.
• In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, red wine vinegar, oregano, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
• Pour the dressing over the salad and toss to combine.
• Chill for at least 30 minutes before serving.

How to serve Italian Spaghetti Salad

Serve Italian Spaghetti Salad chilled or at room temperature.
It pairs well with grilled meats or a light protein; try serving alongside a balsamic chicken cobb salad for a full meal.

How to store Italian Spaghetti Salad

Store Italian Spaghetti Salad in an airtight container in the fridge.
Use within 3–4 days for best texture and flavor.

Tips to make Italian Spaghetti Salad

Use these tips for the best Italian Spaghetti Salad.

• Rinse pasta under cold water to stop cooking and cool it quickly.
• Chop vegetables evenly so each bite is balanced.
• Taste and adjust salt, pepper, or vinegar before chilling.

Variation (if any): Italian Spaghetti Salad

You can change Italian Spaghetti Salad to fit what you like.

• Add pepperoni or salami for a meaty salad.
• Swap mozzarella for feta for a tangy twist.
• Use a squeeze of lemon for extra brightness.

FAQs: Italian Spaghetti Salad

Q: Can I use a different pasta for Italian Spaghetti Salad?
A: Yes. Use any short or long pasta you prefer.

Q: How long should I chill Italian Spaghetti Salad before serving?
A: Chill for at least 30 minutes so flavors blend well.

Q: Where can I buy kitchen tools to make Italian Spaghetti Salad?
A: Buy it here if you need new tools or gadgets.

Italian Spaghetti Salad

A bright, easy pasta salad that works for picnics and quick dinners, ready in about 30 minutes after chilling.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 10 minutes mins

Total Time 30 minutes mins

Course Salad, Side Dish

Cuisine Italian

Servings 6 servings

Calories 250 kcal

Ingredients

  

Pasta and Vegetables

• 8 ounces spaghetti Cook according to package instructions
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 cup cucumber, diced
• 1/2 cup red onion, diced
• 1/2 cup black olives, sliced
• 1/2 cup mozzarella cheese, cubed

Dressing

• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• to taste Salt and pepper Adjust based on preference

Instructions

 

Cooking Pasta

• Cook the spaghetti according to package instructions; drain and let cool.

Mixing Ingredients

• In a large bowl, combine the cooked spaghetti, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, olives, and mozzarella cheese.
• In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, red wine vinegar, oregano, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
• Pour the dressing over the salad and toss to combine.

Chilling

• Chill for at least 30 minutes before serving.

Notes

Rinse pasta under cold water to stop cooking and cool it quickly. Chop vegetables evenly so each bite is balanced. Taste and adjust salt, pepper, or vinegar before chilling.

Keyword Chilled Salad, Italian Spaghetti Salad, Pasta Salad, Picnic Recipe, Quick Dinner