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Fresh Spaghetti Pasta Salad

A vibrant and flavorful spaghetti pasta salad loaded with fresh vegetables and a homemade Italian dressing, perfect for sharing at picnics, BBQs, or family meals.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Salad, Side Dish
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 250

Ingredients
  

Pasta and Vegetables
  • 16 oz spaghetti (or any pasta of your choice)
  • 12 oz cherry tomatoes, halved for freshness and color
  • 2 medium cucumbers, sliced adds crunch
  • 1/3 cup red onion, chopped for sharp flavor
  • 1/3 cup black olives, sliced adds depth
  • 1/3 cup green olives, sliced for balance
  • 4 oz feta cheese, crumbled creamy and tangy
Dressing
  • 1/4 cup lemon juice, freshly squeezed adds brightness
  • 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil smooth base
  • 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning herb flavor
  • 1 tablespoon honey balances acidity
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Method
 

Cooking the Pasta
  1. Bring a large pot of water to a boil and cook the spaghetti according to package instructions.
  2. Drain and rinse under cold water, then drain again.
Preparing the Dressing
  1. In a large bowl, combine olive oil, lemon juice, honey, and Italian seasoning.
  2. Mix well and season with salt and pepper.
Adding Vegetables
  1. Add the cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, red onion, and olives to the dressing.
  2. Mix well and let them sit for a few minutes so the flavors blend.
Combining Everything
  1. Add the cooled spaghetti and crumbled feta cheese to the bowl.
  2. Toss everything together until evenly coated.
Adjusting and Serving
  1. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
  2. Add extra lemon juice or dressing if desired, then serve.

Notes

Rinsing the pasta under cold water helps keep the texture firm and prevents it from becoming mushy. Letting the vegetables sit in the dressing before adding pasta enhances the flavor. This pasta salad stands out because of its balance between fresh vegetables and a flavorful dressing.