Brenda'S Spaghetti Salad
Brenda's Spaghetti Salad is a vibrant, protein-packed dish with fresh vegetables, ham, and cheesy dressing, perfect for casual gatherings or family meals.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook the spaghetti, drain, and let it cool.
- Chop the tomato, onion, cucumber, and green pepper.
- Chop the drained chunked ham.
- In a large bowl, toss the cooked spaghetti with chopped vegetables, ham, Velveeta cheese, and dressing.
- Add Salad Supreme seasoning and salt to taste.
- Mix everything thoroughly and serve.
Tips & Substitutions
For the best flavor, let the salad chill in the refrigerator for at least an hour before serving. You can substitute the chunked ham with cooked chicken or turkey for a different protein option. If you're looking for a healthier twist, consider adding more fresh vegetables like bell peppers or carrots. For a creamy version, you could mix in some mayonnaise or Greek yogurt.
Serving Suggestions
This spaghetti salad is perfect for summer picnics or potlucks and pairs beautifully with Maureen'S Beans for a hearty meal. Serve it alongside grilled chicken or fish for a balanced dinner. For a complete spread, consider offering a side of garlic bread or a light green salad.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, you can microwave individual portions for about 30 seconds to 1 minute, but this dish is also delicious served cold. If it seems dry after refrigeration, add a splash of Zesty Italian dressing before serving.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Brenda'S Spaghetti Salad contains roughly 329 calories, with 6g protein, 37g carbohydrates, and 18g fat. It is a good source of protein (12% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1493mg per serving (65% 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 salad ahead of time?
Yes, this spaghetti salad can be prepared a day in advance. Just be sure to store it in the refrigerator to keep the ingredients fresh. The flavors will meld together beautifully overnight, enhancing the overall taste.
What can I use instead of Velveeta cheese?
If you prefer a different cheese, feel free to substitute Velveeta with shredded cheddar or mozzarella. Just keep in mind that the texture and flavor will vary slightly, but it will still be delicious.
Is there a vegetarian version of this recipe?
Absolutely! You can easily make this spaghetti salad vegetarian by omitting the ham and adding more vegetables like bell peppers, olives, or even chickpeas for added protein. You can also use a plant-based cheese for creaminess.
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).