Italian Spaghetti Salad
Fresh Italian spaghetti salad with colorful vegetables and tangy dressing, a refreshing and easy pasta salad perfect for summer gatherings and potlucks.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: ~2 hours 25 minutes
- Yield: 6–8 servings
- Category: Salad / Pasta Salad
- Method: Boiled & Chilled
- Cuisine: Italian-American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
16 ounces thin spaghetti, halved
3 medium tomatoes, diced
3 small zucchini, diced
1 large cucumber, halved, seeded, and diced
1 medium green pepper, diced
1 medium red pepper, diced
8 ounces Italian salad dressing
2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
1½ teaspoons sesame seeds
1½ teaspoons poppy seeds
½ teaspoon paprika
¼ teaspoon celery seed
⅛ teaspoon garlic powder
Instructions
Cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool completely.
Halve the spaghetti for easier mixing (if not already done before cooking).
In a large bowl, combine cooled spaghetti, diced tomatoes, zucchini, cucumber, green pepper, and red pepper.
Pour Italian dressing over the pasta and vegetables. Toss well to coat evenly.
Add Parmesan cheese, sesame seeds, poppy seeds, paprika, celery seed, and garlic powder.
Mix thoroughly until everything is evenly combined.
Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving to allow flavors to blend.
Toss again before serving and adjust seasoning if needed.
Notes
Chilling time is essential for best flavor—overnight is even better.
You can swap or add vegetables like olives, cherry tomatoes, or onions.
Use gluten-free spaghetti for a gluten-free version.
Add grilled chicken or chickpeas for extra protein.
Adjust dressing quantity based on desired moisture level.
Find it online: https://allcookedup.com/italian-spaghetti-salad/
