Spaghetti Salad Recipe

Celebrate the sunny season with a refreshing and vibrant Summer Italian Spaghetti Salad. This delightful cold spaghetti salad with Italian dressing is perfect for summer entertaining, bringing together colorful vegetables, savory salami, and zesty Italian flavors. Ready in just 30 minutes, this dish is both quick to prepare and sure to impress your guests at any picnic, potluck, or outdoor gathering.

With a medley of fresh ingredients like juicy cherry tomatoes, crisp cucumbers, and tangy red onions, this salad offers a burst of flavor in every bite. The addition of sliced salami or pepperoni adds a satisfying, savory note, while grated Parmesan cheese and homemade Italian dressing elevate the salad to a whole new level. Enjoy it as a main dish on a warm day or as a delicious side to complement your grilled favorites.

Perfectly chilled and coated with a homemade Italian dressing, this spaghetti salad is simple to prepare, yet packed with flavor. It’s a dish that embodies the essence of summer—bright, fresh, and utterly irresistible!

Main Ingredients for a Flavorful Twist

  • Thin Spaghetti – The heart of the salad, providing a light and satisfying base.
  • Cherry Tomatoes – Adds a burst of sweetness and juicy texture.
  • Cucumber – Offers a crisp, refreshing crunch that balances the dish.
  • Salami or Pepperoni – Delivers a savory, meaty depth; choose your favorite or mix both.
  • Green Pepper – Contributes a subtle, earthy flavor and extra crunch.
  • Red Onion – Adds a sharp, tangy bite to the salad.
  • Black Olives – Provides a briny, slightly salty touch.
  • Italian Dressing – The zesty, herbaceous blend that ties everything together. Use store-bought or make your own!
  • Parmesan Cheese – A rich, nutty finish to enhance all the flavors.
  • Paprika, Salt & Pepper – A light seasoning to boost the overall taste.

Steps to Toss Together This Summer Delight

  1. Cook the thin spaghetti according to package directions, but pull it off the heat just a minute early for a perfect al dente bite. Drain and rinse with cold water, and toss with a drizzle of olive oil to prevent sticking. Let it cool in the refrigerator.
  2. In a large bowl, mix the cooled spaghetti with halved cherry tomatoes, diced cucumber, sliced salami or pepperoni, green pepper, red onion, and black olives.
  3. Pour in the Italian dressing of your choice—store-bought or your homemade version. Toss everything together, ensuring every strand of spaghetti and every veggie piece is coated.
  4. Sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese, gently fold into the salad, and adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, and a hint of paprika.
  5. Cover the salad and refrigerate for at least 2 hours to let the flavors meld and the salad chill thoroughly before serving.

Tips to Perfect Your Italian Spaghetti Salad

  • Use a mix of pepperoni and salami for a more complex flavor profile.
  • Add a few extra splashes of lemon juice to the dressing for a brighter taste.
  • If making ahead, toss with half the dressing first, then add the rest just before serving to keep the salad fresh.

Recipe Variations for Extra Fun

Try switching up the vegetables by adding artichoke hearts, roasted red peppers, or sun-dried tomatoes for more Mediterranean flair. You can also substitute feta or mozzarella pearls for the Parmesan to create a different flavor profile. For a vegetarian version, skip the salami and add more fresh veggies like zucchini or bell peppers. Serve alongside grilled chicken or fish for a complete meal.

Keeping Your Salad Fresh and Fabulous

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Before serving, give it a good stir and add a little extra dressing if needed to refresh the flavors. Avoid freezing as the pasta and veggies may lose their texture when thawed.

Enjoy this Summer Italian Spaghetti Salad as a delicious way to embrace the flavors of summer in every bite!