Spaghetti Salad

Easy Cold Spaghetti Salad: My Go-To Pasta Salad

This Italian-inspired pasta salad is a meal prep dream! I make it ahead of time, and let the pasta soak up all that delicious dressing, ensuring that every bite is packed with flavor. Y’alI, I can’t count the number of picnics, potlucks, church covered dish dinners and cookouts I’ve taken this to and I always bring back an empty bowl!

How Do You Make Spaghetti Salad?

Cook spaghetti pasta according to package directions. Drain and rinse.

Add spaghetti, tomatoes, cucumbers, onion, and pepperoni to a large bowl. Drizzle over the dressing and toss all ingredients together. Sprinkle on Parmesan cheese and parsley.

Spaghetti Salad Ingredients

Spaghetti Pasta – You can use regular-sized or thin spaghetti.

Cherry Tomatoes – Or grape tomatoes, are perfect in this salad.

Cucumbers – You can use the full-sized cucumbers or the smaller ones.

Sliced Pepperoni – This gives a hint of meaty flavor and Italian zing.

Red Onion – The spice of purple onion meshes perfectly with the other ingredients.

Parmesan Cheese – Adds an additional flavor that compliments the overall dish.

Parsley –Adds a fresh pop of herby flavor.

Homemade Vinaigrette Dressing – Once you make this dressing, you’ll always want to have it on hand for other salads, too! It’s made with a handful of pantry staples.

Variations and Additions To Easy Spaghetti Salad

If you want a tangier, cheesier flavor, swap the parmesan cheese for feta cheese, as in my Couscous Feta Tomato Salad.
Add bell pepper, black olives, and/or sweet onion.
Although the recipe calls for “spaghetti pasta,” you can still substitute penne, rotini, or any pasta you choose.

Often Asked Questions and Answers

Can this salad be made ahead of time?

Absolutely! Follow the recipe directions and store the spaghetti salad in an airtight container. It will keep for up to 3 days.

What’s the easiest way to turn this into a hearty meal?

If you want to keep it vegetarian, add more vegetables. You can also add grilled and chopped pieces of chicken.

How do I store any leftover salad?

Any leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To mix any dressing that may have settled, give the salad a toss before serving.

What Goes With Pasta Salad With Spaghetti Noodles?

The ways to serve this crazy good cold salad are just about endless. It’s a potluck favorite that disappears quickly, and as a fresh veggie pasta salad, it’s a terrific side dish for cookouts.