Angel Hair Pasta Salad
A quick, flavorful pasta salad featuring tender angel hair, fresh vegetables, cheese, and a tangy Italian dressing, perfect for picnics, parties, or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook the angel hair pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse with cold water to cool.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, chopped cucumber, chopped tomato, chopped onion, and broccoli florets.
- Add the Italian dressing and Salad Supreme seasoning to the pasta mixture. Toss to coat evenly.
- Stir in grated Cheddar cheese and chopped black olives.
- Adjust seasonings to taste. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance flavor, consider adding diced bell peppers or olives for a salty kick. For a lighter version, use a homemade vinaigrette instead of store-bought Italian dressing. If you're short on time, precooked pasta can be used. This salad is versatile; feel free to substitute vegetables based on seasonal availability or personal preference, such as using zucchini or cherry tomatoes.
Serving Suggestions
This Angel Hair Pasta Salad makes a perfect side dish for grilled meats or is delightful on its own as a light lunch. It pairs beautifully with Italian recipes, particularly those featuring fresh herbs. Consider serving it alongside crusty bread or a simple green salad for a complete meal. Garnish with extra grated cheese or fresh herbs for added flair.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors continue to meld, making it even tastier the next day. To reheat, you can gently warm it in the microwave, but be careful not to overheat the cheese. Alternatively, serve it cold for a refreshing dish.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Angel Hair Pasta Salad contains roughly 127 calories, with 2g protein, 9g carbohydrates, and 10g fat. It is a good source of vitamin C (19% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this pasta salad ahead of time?
Yes, this pasta salad can be made ahead of time. In fact, letting it chill in the refrigerator for a few hours or overnight allows the flavors to develop more fully. Just give it a good toss before serving to redistribute the dressing and flavors.
What can I substitute for the Italian dressing?
If you prefer a different flavor profile, you can substitute the Italian dressing with a homemade vinaigrette made from olive oil, vinegar, mustard, and herbs. This way, you can customize the taste to your liking while still keeping it light and fresh.
Is this recipe vegetarian?
Yes, this Angel Hair Pasta Salad is vegetarian, making it a great option for those following a vegetarian diet. You can also make it vegan by omitting the cheese or using a plant-based alternative. It's a versatile dish that can cater to various dietary preferences.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).