There’s something irresistibly fresh and vibrant about a chilled pasta salad in the summertime.
This Spaghetti Pasta Salad is light, crunchy, and packed with colorful veggies, all tossed in a tangy Italian dressing that soaks into every strand.
It’s one of those dishes that always disappears first at cookouts and potlucks—because it’s just that good.
Why I Love This Recipe
This pasta salad is a total lifesaver when I need a quick, make-ahead dish.
It comes together with simple ingredients and is bursting with flavor from both fresh vegetables and a zesty, herb-speckled dressing.
It’s also meatless and budget-friendly—perfect for large gatherings or weekly meal prep.
What You’ll Need (Ingredient Highlights)
Thin Spaghetti: Halved to make it easier to mix and eat.
Fresh Veggies: Tomato, zucchini, cucumber, and bell peppers add crunch and color.
Italian Dressing: The base for our tangy marinade—store-bought or homemade works.
Parmesan Cheese: Adds a nutty, salty finish.
Sesame & Poppy Seeds: Give it texture and that “secret salad touch.”
Paprika, Garlic Powder, Celery Seed: For a punch of savory flavor in the dressing.
Pro Tips Before You Start
Rinse the pasta with cold water to stop the cooking and prevent clumping.
Dice all the vegetables into similar bite-sized pieces for even texture.
Chill for at least 2 hours (or overnight!) for the best flavor.
This salad tastes even better the next day—perfect for meal prep.
How to Make Spaghetti Pasta Salad
Step 1: Cook and Cool the Pasta
Boil the thin spaghetti according to the package directions.
Drain and rinse thoroughly under cold water to cool and prevent sticking.
Step 2: Chop the Vegetables
Dice the tomatoes, zucchini, cucumber, green pepper, and red pepper into bite-sized pieces.
Add them all to a large mixing bowl.
Step 3: Whisk the Dressing
In a separate bowl, whisk together the Italian dressing, grated Parmesan cheese, sesame seeds, poppy seeds, paprika, celery seed, and garlic powder.
Step 4: Combine Everything
Add the cooled spaghetti to the bowl of vegetables.
Pour the dressing over the top and toss well until all the noodles and veggies are coated.
Step 5: Chill
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate for at least 2 hours.
This helps the flavors develop and meld beautifully.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Give the salad a good toss before serving.
Garnish with fresh parsley if desired, and enjoy this refreshing pasta salad cold!
What to Serve It With
This chilled spaghetti pasta salad goes well with:
Grilled chicken, steak, or shrimp
Burgers or hot dogs at a summer BBQ
Sandwiches and wraps for lunch
A picnic basket with lemonade and fruit
Variations / Substitutions
Swap Italian dressing with balsamic vinaigrette for a different twist.
Add feta cheese or olives for a Mediterranean flair.
Toss in chickpeas or kidney beans for added protein.
Try whole wheat spaghetti or gluten-free pasta if needed.
Storage & Leftovers
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
Stir before serving again to redistribute the dressing.
Best served cold, straight from the fridge—no reheating needed.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, rotini or penne also work well, but spaghetti gives a unique texture.
Can I make it the night before?
Absolutely! The flavor improves overnight in the fridge.
Is this dish vegetarian?
Yes, it’s entirely vegetarian—and even vegan if you omit the Parmesan.
How do I keep the pasta from sticking?
Rinse it with cold water right after cooking and toss it with the dressing soon after.
Can I add meat to this salad?
Sure! Grilled chicken or salami slices make great protein additions.
What can I use instead of poppy seeds?
You can skip them or replace with a bit more sesame or chia seeds.
Is it good for meal prep?
Yes! It holds up well in the fridge and is great for grab-and-go lunches.
Final Thoughts
This Spaghetti Pasta Salad is a celebration of fresh ingredients and bold, tangy flavor.
It’s the kind of dish I return to again and again when I need something quick, easy, and delicious—whether for a summer picnic or a weekday lunchbox.
Bright, satisfying, and refreshingly simple.
