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Easy Spaghetti Pasta Salad Recipe: Fresh & Flavorful

Easy Spaghetti Pasta Salad Recipe: Fresh & Flavorful
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This spaghetti pasta salad is a fresh, colorful, and flavorful dish that’s perfect for any occasion! It’s simple to make and can be used as either a side dish or the main course. It has crunchy vegetables, creamy cheese, and a sour sauce. It can be changed in many ways, which makes it a hit at parties, picnics, and family dinners.

Ingredients

Scale

Ingredients:

  • 300g spaghetti noodles (or any pasta of choice)
  • 1 tbsp olive oil (to coat the pasta)
  • Seasonings:
    • 1 tsp Cajun seasoning
    • 1 tsp Salad Supreme seasoning
    • ½ tsp garlic powder
    • 1 tsp fresh dill (chopped)
    • 1 tsp fresh parsley (chopped)
  • Dressings:
    • 1 cup Italian salad dressing (try a robust variety like Wish Bone Robusto)
    • ½ cup Ranch dressing
    • 2 tbsp balsamic vinegar (to add richness and a slightly tangy twist)
  • Veggies:
    • 1 cup cucumber, diced
    • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
    • ½ cup red onion, finely diced (soaked in ice water for a milder taste)
    • 1 cup bell peppers (mix of green, red, yellow), diced
    • ½ cup sweet corn kernels (for a crunchy sweetness)
  • Cheese & Protein:
    • ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese (for creaminess)
    • ½ cup crumbled feta (for a salty bite)
    • 1 cup pepperoni or cooked grilled chicken (for extra flavor, or optional for a vegetarian version)
  • Toppings:
    • Fresh basil and dill for garnish
    • A handful of black olives (optional)
    • Crushed red pepper (for a spicy kick, optional)

Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti noodles and cook according to the package instructions (about 10-12 minutes). Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process and cool the pasta. Drizzle with olive oil to prevent sticking and set aside.

Step 2: Season the Pasta

In a large mixing bowl, add the cooled pasta and sprinkle with Cajun seasoning, McCormick Salad Supreme, garlic powder, fresh dill, and chopped parsley. Toss well until the pasta is evenly coated with seasonings.

Step 3: Prepare the Dressing

In a separate bowl, mix together Italian dressing, Ranch dressing, and balsamic vinegar. Stir well until fully combined.

Step 4: Add the Veggies

To the seasoned pasta, add diced cucumber, halved cherry tomatoes, diced bell pepper, red onions (soaked in ice water for 5 minutes and drained), and cup sweet corn kernels. Toss gently to combine all ingredients.

Step 5: Mix in Cheese & Protein

Stir in shredded mozzarella cheese, crumbled feta cheese, and your choice of protein—either grilled chicken or pepperoni slices. Toss everything gently to distribute the flavors evenly.

Step 6: Final Toss & Chill

Pour the prepared dressing over the pasta mixture and toss carefully to coat everything evenly. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to blend together.

Step 7: Garnish & Serve

Before serving, garnish with fresh basil and dill for extra flavor. If you like a bit of heat, sprinkle with crushed red pepper. Serve and enjoy!

Notes

  • For the best flavor, chill the salad for at least 2 hours before serving.
  • To keep the pasta from getting soggy, add the dressing just before serving.
  • For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free spaghetti and ensure dressings are gluten-free.
  • Leftovers? Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Add a little extra dressing before serving if needed.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://savorvibes.com/spaghetti-pasta-salad/