Name: Spaghetti Pasta Salad with Italian Dressing Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1 16 oz package thin spaghetti (halved); 1 cup cherry tomatoes (halved); 1 cup cucumber (diced); 1 cup salami slices (or pepperoni, or both), cut into small pieces; 1 medium green pepper (diced); ½ small red onion (diced); ½ cup black olives (drained, thinly sliced); 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 teaspoon paprika; Salt & pepper to taste; 1 ½ cups extra virgin olive oil; 3 tablespoons red wine vinegar; 1 tablespoon dried oregano; 1 ½ teaspoons dried basil; 1 tablespoon fresh squeezed lemon juice (plus more to taste); 2 garlic cloves (minced); 3 tablespoons Parmesan cheese; Salt and pepper to taste

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If you’re searching for a dish that bursts with vibrant flavors, has a delightful mix of textures, and is perfect for any gathering, look no further than the Spaghetti Pasta Salad with Italian Dressing Recipe. This recipe brings together perfectly cooked thin spaghetti, fresh crunchy vegetables, savory salami, and a tangy, herb-packed Italian dressing that ties everything together beautifully. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner side or the star of your picnic, this pasta salad is a total crowd-pleaser that’s as easy to make as it is delicious.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A large white oval plate holds a layer of cooked spaghetti as the base, topped with six separate piles of ingredients arranged in rows. Starting from the left, there are green cucumber pieces with their shiny skin, next to a pile of black olive slices that have a smooth matte texture. In the center, bright red cherry tomatoes are halved, showing their juicy inside. To the right of the tomatoes, pale pink slices of salami are folded loosely, adding a slightly textured look. On the far right, finely diced light green bell peppers and finely chopped purple onions sit side by side, adding a colorful contrast. Around the plate on the white marbled surface are small white square bowls holding grated cheese, ground black pepper, salt, and a light orange dressing. Two silver serving spoons with blue handles rest at the lower edge of the plate. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Simple, fresh ingredients make this salad shine. Each component plays a key role, offering a balance of freshness, savory depth, and vibrant color that turns this pasta salad into a feast for both your eyes and your taste buds.

Thin spaghetti (16 oz, halved): The backbone of the salad, cooked al dente for perfect bite and texture.
Cherry tomatoes (1 cup, halved): Juicy bursts of sweetness that brighten every forkful.
Cucumber (1 cup, diced): Adds refreshing crunch and coolness to contrast the richer ingredients.
Salami slices (1 cup, cut into small pieces): Brings smoky, savory flavor; feel free to mix with pepperoni for extra zest.
Green pepper (1 medium, diced): Offers a mild peppery crispness and vibrant green color.
Red onion (½ small, diced): Provides a touch of sharpness and a splash of purple for color.
Black olives (½ cup, drained, thinly sliced): Adds a salty, briny depth that complements the mild pasta.
Italian salad dressing (1 bottle or homemade): The magic sauce loaded with herbs and tang; see below for the homemade recipe.
Parmesan cheese (1 cup grated plus 3 TBSP for dressing): Creamy saltiness that elevates every bite.
Paprika (1 teaspoon): A subtle smoky note that rounds out the flavors.
Extra virgin olive oil (1 ½ cups): Adds richness and helps meld all the ingredients together.
Red wine vinegar (3 TBSP): Brightens the dressing with a pleasant acidity.
Dried oregano (1 TBSP): Classic Italian herb that adds earthiness.
Dried basil (1 ½ teaspoon): Sweet and aromatic notes to the dressing.
Fresh squeezed lemon juice (1 TBSP plus more to taste): Infuses a fresh citrus zing.
Garlic cloves (2, minced): Adds pungent warmth and depth to the dressing.
Salt and pepper to taste: Balances and enhances all the flavors.

How to Make Spaghetti Pasta Salad with Italian Dressing Recipe

Step 1: Cook the Spaghetti

Start by cooking the spaghetti following the package instructions, but reduce the time slightly to keep it al dente — that slight firmness makes the salad so much more satisfying. After draining, rinse the pasta with cold water to cool it down quickly and stop the cooking process. Tossing a little olive oil in now prevents the noodles from sticking and gives them a silky texture that perfectly carries the dressing later.

Step 2: Prepare the Fresh Ingredients

While the pasta cools, chop your veggies and salami into bite-size pieces. The colorful combination of cherry tomatoes, crisp cucumber, diced green pepper, red onion, and sliced black olives adds an irresistible fresh crunch and deep flavors that make every forkful exciting. Mixing the salami brings a pleasant savory note that beautifully balances the salad.

Step 3: Make the Italian Dressing

Whether you opt for store-bought or decide to whip up the homemade Italian dressing, the key is the harmony of flavors. Combine extra virgin olive oil, red wine vinegar, garlic, dried oregano, dried basil, lemon juice, paprika, and Parmesan cheese into a smooth blend. Season it well with salt and pepper. This dressing is the heart of the salad, so make sure to taste and adjust as you go for that perfect tangy-herb balance.

Step 4: Combine and Chill

Now, toss the cooled spaghetti and chopped ingredients in a large bowl. Pour over the dressing and gently fold everything together so each strand and piece is luxuriously coated. Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese on top, then cover and refrigerate the salad for at least 2 hours. This chilling step not only cools the salad but allows the flavors to marry beautifully, intensifying the deliciousness with time.

How to Serve Spaghetti Pasta Salad with Italian Dressing Recipe

A large white oval plate holds a layered pasta salad. The base layer is light yellow spaghetti noodles spread across the plate. On top are bright red halved cherry tomatoes, diced green cucumbers, small chopped purple onions, sliced black olives, and chunks of pink ham scattered evenly. The ingredients mix with the pasta, and a light sprinkle of black pepper is visible on top. The background is a white marbled surface, and a pair of utensils with turquoise handles rest at the top of the plate. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Sprinkle freshly chopped basil, extra shaved Parmesan, or a few whole cherry tomatoes on top just before serving to add freshness and visual appeal. A light drizzle of olive oil or a squeeze of lemon can also brighten the flavors right at the table.

Side Dishes

This Spaghetti Pasta Salad with Italian Dressing Recipe pairs wonderfully with grilled chicken, roasted vegetables, or crusty garlic bread. Its cool, tangy personality complements smoky or savory mains perfectly, making it an effortless addition to any meal.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve the pasta salad in hollowed-out bell peppers or tomatoes for a colorful presentation. You can also assemble it in a large glass bowl layered with fresh basil leaves or even turn individual servings into cute mason jar salads for picnics or lunch on the go.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep any leftover spaghetti pasta salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It stays fresh and flavorful for up to 3 days, making for easy grab-and-go meals or quick additions to your lunchbox.

Freezing

Because this salad features fresh vegetables and an oil-based dressing, freezing is not recommended. The texture of the veggies and pasta can become mushy upon thawing, taking away from the salad’s crisp charm.

Reheating

This salad is best served chilled or at room temperature. If you prefer, you can let it sit outside the fridge for about 15-20 minutes before serving to take off the chill without needing any reheating.

FAQs

Can I use other types of pasta for this salad?

Absolutely! While thin spaghetti works beautifully, feel free to substitute with bowtie, rotini, or penne if you prefer. Just keep the pasta cooked al dente for the best texture.

Is it possible to make this vegetarian?

Yes! Simply omit the salami and replace it with roasted chickpeas, artichoke hearts, or extra olives for added protein and richness without meat.

Can I make my own Italian dressing instead of using store-bought?

Definitely, and the homemade dressing in this recipe’s ingredients section is easy and packed with fresh flavors. Making your own lets you control the ingredients and customize it to your taste.

How long should I let the salad chill before serving?

At least 2 hours is ideal to allow all the flavors to marry, but if you’re in a rush, 30 minutes can still work for a quick flavor boost.

Can I add cheese other than Parmesan?

Parmesan’s nutty, salty profile is perfect here, but feel free to experiment with mozzarella pearls or crumbled feta for a different flavor twist.

Final Thoughts

This Spaghetti Pasta Salad with Italian Dressing Recipe has become a go-to in my kitchen whenever I want something vibrant, easy, and full of flavor to share. Its perfect balance between fresh, tangy, and savory elements makes it irresistible, and I can’t wait for you to try it yourself. Give it a go, whether for a casual meal or your next party, and watch it quickly become a family favorite!

Spaghetti Pasta Salad with Italian Dressing Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need