Description
A vibrant and refreshing summer Italian Spaghetti Salad combining al dente pasta with fresh vegetables, savory salami, and a tangy homemade Italian dressing, perfect for picnics and outdoor gatherings.
Ingredients
Units
Scale
For the Salad
- 16 oz thin spaghetti, halved
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup cucumber, diced
- 1 cup Salami slices (or pepperoni), cut into small pieces
- 1 medium green pepper, diced
- 1/2 small red onion, diced
- 1/2 cup black olives, drained, thinly sliced
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt & pepper to taste
For the Homemade Italian Dressing
- 1 1/2 cups Extra Virgin Olive Oil
- 3 TBSP red wine vinegar
- 1 TBSP dried oregano
- 1 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 TBSP fresh squeezed lemon juice
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 3 TBSP Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook the spaghetti: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil, cook the pasta until al dente (about 8-10 minutes), then drain and rinse with cold water to stop cooking. Toss with a little olive oil to prevent sticking and refrigerate until fully cooled.
- Prepare the vegetables and salami: While the pasta cools, dice the cucumber, red onion, green pepper, and cut the cherry tomatoes in half. Slice the black olives and salami into small pieces.
- Make the dressing: In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, red wine vinegar, dried oregano, dried basil, lemon juice, minced garlic, Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper until well combined.
- Assemble the salad: Place the cooled pasta in a large bowl, add the prepared vegetables, salami, and olives. Pour the dressing over the mixture and toss to coat evenly.
- Finish and chill: Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, sprinkle with paprika, season with additional salt and pepper if needed. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours to let flavors meld before serving.
Notes
- Adjust the amount of lemon juice and seasoning to taste for a brighter or more tangy flavor.
- For extra protein, add cooked chicken or mozzarella balls.
- This salad can be made a day ahead for convenience and better flavor integration.
- Use high-quality salami or pepperoni for the best flavor experience.
- If you prefer a creamier dressing, add a dollop of mayonnaise or Greek yogurt.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 480mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 25mg
