Craving a burst of flavors that dances on your taste buds?

Imagine a bowl of Italian Spaghetti Salad that’s equal parts colorful and delicious. This quick and easy dish packs a punch with bright cherry tomatoes, crisp cucumbers, and zesty Italian dressing. Perfect for a picnic or a potluck, it’s like bringing a taste of Italy right to your table!

Why make this recipe

First off, it’s super easy to whip up! You won’t need hours in the kitchen or a fancy culinary degree to impress your friends and family. Not to mention, cleanup takes no time at all — just a pot and a bowl!

And let’s not forget that this salad is family-friendly. It appeals to kids and adults alike, making it a go-to for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. Who can say no to spaghetti dressed up for a salad party? 🍝

Ingredients

You don’t need fancy stuff — just these basics!

8 ounces spaghetti
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1 cup cucumber, chopped
1/2 cup bell pepper, diced
1/2 cup black olives, sliced
1/4 cup red onion, chopped
1/2 cup Italian dressing
1/4 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
Salt and pepper to taste

Directions

Cook the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse with cold water to cool.
In a large bowl, combine the cooked spaghetti, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, bell pepper, black olives, and red onion.
Pour the Italian dressing over the salad and toss it all together gently.
Add the Parmesan cheese, along with salt and pepper, adjusting to taste.
Give it one last toss until everything is beautifully mixed. Chill in the fridge for at least 30 minutes before serving.

How to make Italian Spaghetti Salad (Overview)

Making this Italian Spaghetti Salad is a breeze! First, just boil those noodles until they’re perfectly al dente—no one likes mushy pasta. Rinse them under cold water to quickly cool them down. Then, toss everything into one bowl like you’re hosting an Italian fiesta with those veggies and olives.

Pro tip: Let the salad chill for at least 30 minutes. This helps all those flavors mingle together—because we all know friendships take time!

How to serve Italian Spaghetti Salad

Picture this: a vibrant bowl of salad, bursting with color and crunch. Serve it in clear glass bowls to showcase those bright cherry tomatoes and greens. A sprinkle of extra Parmesan on top? Absolutely! Pair it with some grilled chicken or a slice of garlic bread for a meal that sings of summer evenings.

How to store Italian Spaghetti Salad

If by some miracle you have leftovers (which is rare), it’ll stay fresh in the fridge for about 3–5 days. It’s best enjoyed cold, so keep it in an airtight container. Just remember, if you want to skip the soggy noodles, don’t freeze it.

Tips to make Italian Spaghetti Salad

Timing is everything: Make it earlier in the day. The longer it sits, the more flavor it develops.
Ingredient swaps: Toss in whatever veggies you have. Broccoli? Carrots? Go wild!
For added crunch, throw in a handful of toasted nuts. They give a delightful contrast to the soft pasta.

Variation

Want to jazz it up a bit? Go vegan by swapping out the Parmesan cheese for a nut-based alternative. Tossing in some artichoke hearts or mozzarella balls brings a whole new level of flavor and texture.

FAQs

Can I use gluten-free spaghetti? Absolutely! Just check the package directions and follow them as usual.
How long can I make this ahead of time? You can definitely prepare it a day in advance. Just hold off on adding the dressing until you’re ready to serve for maximum freshness!
What if I don’t have Italian dressing? No problem! A simple mix of olive oil, vinegar, and Italian herbs will do the trick.

📌 Pin this recipe for your next cozy dinner night!