Spaghetti Pasta Salad
A vibrant and refreshing pasta salad featuring tender spaghetti, crunchy cucumbers, ripe tomatoes, and onions, all coated in flavorful Italian dressing and vegetable seasoning. Perfect for picnics, barbecues, or casual gatherings, it offers a cool, savory bite that appeals to all ages.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Toss together cooked spaghetti, diced cucumbers, diced tomatoes, and diced onion in a large bowl.
- Add Italian dressing and McCormick Vegetable Supreme to the mixture.
- Mix well to coat all ingredients evenly.
- Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a vibrant twist, consider adding bell peppers or olives to your spaghetti salad. If you prefer a lighter dressing, substitute the Italian dressing with a homemade vinaigrette using olive oil and vinegar. You can also use gluten-free pasta if needed. Allowing the salad to chill longer enhances the flavors, so consider making it a few hours in advance.
Serving Suggestions
This spaghetti pasta salad is a perfect side dish for summer barbecues or picnics and pairs beautifully with Chicken Jerusalem. Serve it alongside grilled meats or as part of a buffet spread. For a vegetarian option, complement the salad with a side of Chilled Rice Salad or Cool Vegetable Salad.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The spaghetti salad can be enjoyed cold straight from the fridge. If you find the pasta has absorbed too much dressing, add a splash more dressing or a drizzle of olive oil before serving to refresh the flavors.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Spaghetti Pasta Salad contains roughly 516 calories, with 3g protein, 63g carbohydrates, and 28g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (48% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1322mg per serving (57% 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, you can prepare this pasta salad a day in advance. Just keep it covered in the refrigerator. The flavors will meld together nicely, making it even more delicious by serving time. If you notice the pasta has absorbed some dressing, simply stir in a little extra dressing before serving.
What other vegetables can I add to this salad?
Feel free to get creative! You can add bell peppers, carrots, or even artichokes for added flavor and crunch. Fresh herbs like parsley or basil can also enhance the freshness of the dish. For a Mediterranean flair, consider including marinated tomatoes or olives.
Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, this spaghetti pasta salad is vegetarian-friendly! It includes a variety of vegetables and a dressing that does not contain meat products. If you're looking for a vegan version, ensure the Italian dressing is free from animal products, and enjoy a flavorful, plant-based dish.
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).