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Instructions:
Step 1: Cook the Spaghetti
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti and cook according to the package directions until the pasta is al dente. Once done, drain the pasta and rinse it under cold water to stop the cooking process and cool it down. This helps prevent the spaghetti from becoming mushy when mixed with the dressing. Set the pasta aside to drain completely.
Step 2: Prepare the Veggies
While the pasta is cooking, prepare your vegetables. Halve the cherry tomatoes, dice the cucumber, finely chop the red onion, and dice the bell peppers. If you’re using black olives, slice them into rings. Once the veggies are prepped, place them into a large mixing bowl.
Step 3: Make the Dressing
In a small bowl or jar, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, honey (if using), garlic powder, oregano, salt, and pepper. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed, adding more vinegar for tanginess or more honey for sweetness, depending on your preference.
Step 4: Combine the Ingredients
Add the cooled spaghetti to the mixing bowl with the prepared vegetables. Pour the dressing over the pasta and vegetables, tossing everything together gently until the pasta and veggies are evenly coated. If you like a creamier version, you can add a little mayo or Greek yogurt to the dressing for a richer texture.
Step 5: Chill and Serve
Once everything is well mixed, cover the bowl with plastic wrap or transfer the salad to an airtight container. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to marinate and the salad to chill. This also helps the dressing to soak into the pasta, enhancing the overall flavor.
Just before serving, garnish the salad with freshly chopped parsley or basil, and sprinkle with Parmesan cheese if desired. Serve cold and enjoy!
Tips for the Perfect Spaghetti Salad
- Use Al Dente Pasta: Be sure not to overcook the pasta. Al dente pasta holds up better in the salad and doesn’t get too mushy when tossed with the dressing. Rinse the pasta well under cold water to help it maintain its texture.
- Veggie Variations: Feel free to swap in any vegetables you like. Carrots, broccoli, zucchini, or even corn are great additions to the salad. You can also add protein-rich ingredients like grilled chicken, bacon, or chickpeas for a heartier version.
- Add a Touch of Heat: If you like a little heat, sprinkle some red pepper flakes into the dressing for an extra kick. This pairs wonderfully with the tangy dressing.
- Make It Ahead: This salad actually gets better as it sits and marinates, so feel free to make it a day ahead of time. Just be sure to give it a quick toss before serving to redistribute the dressing.
- Make It Gluten-Free: For a gluten-free version, simply swap out the regular spaghetti for a gluten-free pasta. There are many great gluten-free pasta options available that work just as well in this salad.
- Add a Creamy Touch: For a creamier version of this salad, you can stir in a few tablespoons of mayonnaise or Greek yogurt into the dressing. This adds a rich, creamy texture that complements the crunchy vegetables.
Why You’ll Love Spaghetti Salad
- Refreshing and Light: The cool, tangy dressing and fresh vegetables make this pasta salad a light, refreshing dish that’s perfect for warmer months. It’s the ideal side for summer barbecues or a picnic in the park.
- Simple and Quick: With minimal prep time and only a few ingredients, this recipe is quick and easy to make. You can even prepare it the day before, saving you time on the day of your gathering.
- Customizable: Whether you like it tangy, creamy, or with a bit of spice, Spaghetti Salad is highly customizable. You can tailor the recipe to suit your tastes, making it the perfect base for experimentation.
- Great for Meal Prep: Since this salad holds up well in the fridge, it’s a fantastic option for meal prep. Make a batch on Sunday, and you’ll have a delicious lunch or side dish ready to go all week long.
Conclusion
Spaghetti Salad is a versatile, crowd-pleasing dish that combines the satisfying bite of pasta with fresh veggies, a tangy dressing, and endless possibilities for customization. It’s light yet hearty, and perfect for summer gatherings, meal prep, or anytime you want a flavorful and easy dish that can be made in advance.
So next time you need a dish that’s quick, refreshing, and full of flavor, give Spaghetti Salad a try. It’s sure to become a new favorite in your recipe rotation!
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