Summer Spaghetti Salad

This Summer Spaghetti Salad is a vibrant and refreshing dish that combines colorful veggies, cheeses, and a tangy Italian dressing. It’s the perfect side dish for a summer picnic, BBQ, or potluck. With the addition of feta cheese, this recipe offers a creamy twist on a classic pasta salad that’s sure to please any crowd.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Summer Spaghetti Salad is a light yet satisfying dish that’s bursting with fresh flavors. The combination of crunchy vegetables, creamy cheeses, and a zesty dressing makes it an irresistible addition to any summer meal. Whether you’re preparing it for a family gathering or a backyard BBQ, this salad is simple to make, full of texture, and packed with vibrant colors. The sprinkle of feta at the end adds the perfect finishing touch, making it both creamy and tangy. Plus, it’s easy to make ahead, so it’s a stress-free option for your next get-together.

Ingredients

• 1 pound box spaghetti noodles

• 1 green pepper, diced

• 1 red pepper, diced

• ½ red onion, thinly sliced

• 1 English cucumber, sliced

• 1 cup grape tomatoes, sliced in half

• 2.25-ounce can sliced olives, drained

• ½ cup cheddar cheese, cut into cubes

• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese

• 1 Tablespoon McCormick Salad Supreme seasoning

• 1 teaspoon garlic powder

• 16-ounce bottle Italian dressing

• A sprinkle of feta cheese (for garnish)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Cook the Spaghetti: Cook the spaghetti noodles according to package directions. Season the boiling water with 1 tablespoon of kosher salt before adding the noodles. Stir occasionally while cooking. Once the noodles are al dente, drain them well and set them aside to cool.

2. Prepare the Vegetables and Cheese: In a large bowl, add all the diced vegetables, olives, and cheeses.

3. Combine the Salad: Add the cooled spaghetti to the veggies and cheese in the bowl. Season the salad with McCormick Salad Supreme seasoning and garlic powder. Gently toss everything together to combine.

4. Dress the Salad: Pour the Italian dressing over the salad mixture and stir until everything is well coated.

5. Add the Feta: Sprinkle the feta cheese on top of the salad and gently toss again for an added burst of flavor.

6. Chill: Cover the salad with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving to allow the flavors to meld together.

Servings and Timing

• Prep Time: 25 minutes

• Total Time: 25 minutes

• Servings: 10 servings

Variations

• Add Protein: For a more substantial meal, add grilled chicken, shrimp, or bacon to the salad.

• Change the Cheese: Swap the cheddar cheese for mozzarella, feta, or even goat cheese for a different flavor profile.

• Use Whole Wheat Pasta: For a healthier version, use whole wheat spaghetti instead of regular pasta.

• Spicy Kick: Add some diced jalapeños or a dash of red pepper flakes to the salad for a little heat.

• Add More Veggies: Feel free to add other vegetables like carrots, peas, or even roasted red peppers for additional flavor and color.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store any leftover spaghetti salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

• Reheating: This is a cold salad and doesn’t need to be reheated. Just serve chilled from the fridge.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes! You can use other types of pasta, like rotini, farfalle, or penne, instead of spaghetti for a fun twist.

2. Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Absolutely! This salad is actually better if made ahead, as it gives the flavors time to meld together. Make it up to 24 hours in advance for the best results.

3. Can I use homemade dressing instead of store-bought?

Yes, you can make your own Italian dressing using olive oil, vinegar, garlic, and your favorite seasonings for a more personalized flavor.

4. Can I skip the feta cheese?

Yes, if you prefer, you can omit the feta or substitute it with another cheese like mozzarella or parmesan.

5. How do I keep the salad from getting soggy?

To prevent the salad from getting soggy, make sure to drain the spaghetti well and let it cool completely before mixing it with the veggies and dressing.

6. Can I make this salad gluten-free?

Yes, simply use gluten-free pasta to make this salad gluten-free.

7. How long can I keep leftovers?

Leftover spaghetti salad can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. The dressing might make the pasta a little soft, but it will still taste great.

8. Can I add nuts to the salad?

If you like a bit of crunch, try adding some toasted pine nuts, sunflower seeds, or chopped almonds to the salad.

9. Can I use frozen vegetables?

Fresh vegetables are ideal for this recipe, but you could use thawed frozen vegetables if needed. Just make sure they’re drained well before adding them.

10. Can I use a different type of vinegar in the dressing?

Yes, you can use red wine vinegar or balsamic vinegar in place of white wine vinegar for a slightly different flavor.

Conclusion

This Summer Spaghetti Salad is a delightful, vibrant, and easy-to-make dish that’s perfect for summer gatherings, picnics, or any occasion when you want something refreshing and light. With a mix of fresh vegetables, creamy cheeses, and a tangy Italian dressing, it’s a crowd-pleasing side that pairs well with just about anything. Make it ahead for a stress-free addition to your next meal, and enjoy a burst of flavors in every bite!