Mattie'S Spaghetti Salad
A light and flavorful spaghetti salad featuring fresh tomatoes, green pepper, and onion, perfect for summer picnics, potlucks, or casual family dinners with a tangy dressing.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Boil the broken spaghetti until done.
- Rinse the cooked spaghetti thoroughly with hot water, then rinse again with cold water.
- Mix the cooked spaghetti, chopped tomatoes, green pepper, and onion together.
- Add salad dressing and toss to combine.
- Let sit overnight in the refrigerator before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a more vibrant salad, consider adding olives or diced cucumbers for extra crunch. Feel free to substitute any short pasta if spaghetti isn't on hand. Fresh herbs like basil or parsley can also enhance the flavor. If you prefer a tangy twist, a splash of vinegar can be a great addition. To make it heartier, add some diced cooked chicken or chickpeas, especially for a protein boost in vegan recipes.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this spaghetti salad chilled as a refreshing side dish for barbecues or picnics. It pairs beautifully with grilled meats or a light protein like fish. Consider serving it alongside a slice of Delia'S Elderberry Pie for a delightful finish to your meal. Garnish with fresh herbs for an added touch of flavor and color.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To refresh the salad, add a little more dressing before serving. If the spaghetti absorbs too much dressing, you can also sprinkle a bit of water or additional vinegar to revive the flavors. Avoid freezing as the texture may become mushy upon thawing.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Mattie'S Spaghetti Salad contains roughly 528 calories, with 4g protein, 46g carbohydrates, and 37g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (28% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1467mg per serving (64% of the Daily Value).
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make spaghetti salad ahead of time?
Absolutely! In fact, allowing it to sit overnight helps the flavors meld beautifully. Just be sure to store it in the refrigerator in an airtight container to keep it fresh. If you plan to serve it later, you can always adjust the dressing before serving to ensure it's not too dry.
What dressing works best for spaghetti salad?
A classic Italian dressing or a vinaigrette works wonderfully with this salad. You can also use a creamy dressing if you prefer a richer flavor. Experiment with different dressings to find your favorite. Just remember to add it gradually and taste as you go to achieve the perfect balance.
Is it possible to add protein to this salad?
Definitely! Adding cooked chicken, shrimp, or even chickpeas can enhance the salad's nutrition and make it a complete meal. Just ensure that any protein added is cooled before mixing it in, so it doesn't affect the overall temperature of the salad.
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).