If you’re craving something fresh, vibrant, and full of bold Italian flavors, this Summer Italian Spaghetti Salad Recipe is an absolute game-changer. It combines tender strands of spaghetti with crisp veggies, savory salami, olives, and a zesty, herb-packed dressing that brings everything together beautifully. Perfect for those sunny days when you want a light yet satisfying dish that bursts with color and flavor, this salad is not just a side—it’s the star of the table and guaranteed to bring smiles all around.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic behind this Summer Italian Spaghetti Salad Recipe is all in its simple yet essential ingredients. Each one plays a unique role: from the crisp crunch of fresh veggies to the rich saltiness of salami and the bright zing of lemon and herbs in the dressing, everything works together to create a perfect harmony of tastes and textures.
- 16 oz thin spaghetti, halved: The base that soaks up the dressing while keeping a nice bite.
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved: Adds juicy sweetness and vibrant red color.
- 1 cup cucumber, diced: For a refreshing crunch and cool contrast.
- 1 cup Salami slices (or pepperoni), cut into small pieces: Brings savory, meaty depth and a little spice.
- 1 medium green pepper, diced: A crunchy, slightly sweet element that balances the salad.
- ½ small red onion, diced: Offers a bit of sharpness to lift the flavors.
- ½ cup black olives, drained, thinly sliced: Adds briny, salty notes for complexity.
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Gives the salad a nutty, savory finish.
- 1 teaspoon paprika: A subtle smoky spice sprinkled on top for warmth.
- Salt & pepper to taste: Essential seasonings to enhance every bite.
- 1 ½ cups Extra Virgin Olive Oil: The rich, fruity base of the dressing.
- 3 TBSP red wine vinegar: Provides tangy brightness that wakes up the palate.
- 1 TBSP dried oregano: Classic Italian herb to bring earthiness.
- 1 ½ teaspoon dried basil: Adds sweet, slightly peppery fragrance.
- 1 TBSP fresh squeezed lemon juice: For extra zest and freshness.
- 2 garlic cloves, minced: Offers pungent warmth and depth in the dressing.
- 3 TBSP Parmesan cheese: Mixed into the dressing for creaminess and umami.
How to Make Summer Italian Spaghetti Salad Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Spaghetti
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the halved thin spaghetti and cook just until al dente, about 8 to 10 minutes. This ensures a slight bite that holds up well in the salad. Once cooked, drain the pasta and rinse it with cold water to stop the cooking process—this keeps it perfectly firm and pleasantly chewy.
Step 2: Prepare the Vegetables and Salami
While the pasta cools down, chop all your fresh ingredients. Halve the cherry tomatoes, dice cucumber, green pepper, and red onion, and thinly slice both the black olives and the salami. These colorful components add crunch, sweetness, and that savory punch you expect in an Italian spaghetti salad.
Step 3: Make the Dressing
Whisk together extra virgin olive oil, red wine vinegar, dried oregano, dried basil, fresh lemon juice, minced garlic, and Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper and blend until everything is emulsified and the dressing carries a bright, herby aroma. This is what will transform the pasta and veggies into a cohesive, flavor-packed delight.
Step 4: Assemble the Salad
In a large bowl, combine the cooled spaghetti, chopped vegetables, salami, and olives. Pour the freshly whisked dressing over everything and toss gently but thoroughly to ensure all ingredients are evenly coated with that vibrant, savory mix.
Step 5: Finish and Chill
Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over the salad and dust with a pinch of paprika for a subtle smoky warmth. Adjust the seasoning with extra salt and pepper if needed. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least two hours to allow all the flavors to blend together beautifully. This resting time is key for the Summer Italian Spaghetti Salad Recipe to reach its full potential.
How to Serve Summer Italian Spaghetti Salad Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh basil leaves or a sprinkle of chopped Italian parsley add a refreshing herbal touch and vibrant green color. If you want a little extra zing, a drizzle of balsamic glaze on top can elevate the dish to gourmet levels. Thin shavings of Parmesan right before serving also make each bite extra special.
Side Dishes
This salad shines bright on its own but pairs wonderfully with grilled chicken, crusty garlic bread, or an antipasto platter featuring cheeses and cured meats. It’s also a fantastic companion to a chilled glass of crisp white wine or sparkling water with lemon for the ultimate summer meal.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve the salad in a large clear glass bowl to showcase its colorful layers, or for a party, spoon it into individual mason jars for easy, elegant portions. You could even offer some toasted pine nuts or chopped roasted artichoke hearts as optional toppings to surprise and delight your guests with unique additions.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Place any leftover Summer Italian Spaghetti Salad Recipe in an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh and flavorful for up to three days, making it perfect for quick lunches or light dinners during a busy week.
Freezing
This salad is best enjoyed fresh and is not suitable for freezing because the pasta and fresh vegetables lose their texture when thawed. To keep it tasting its best, prepare only what you expect to eat within a few days.
Reheating
Since this salad is served cold, reheating isn’t necessary. If you prefer, bring it to room temperature before serving or give it a gentle toss and freshen it up with a squeeze of lemon just before plating.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta for this salad?
Absolutely! While thin spaghetti works beautifully here, you can also use rotini, penne, or farfalle. Just make sure to cook it al dente and cool it properly to maintain the best texture.
Is there a vegetarian version of this Summer Italian Spaghetti Salad Recipe?
Yes! Simply omit the salami and add extra olives or roasted vegetables like artichokes or mushrooms for savory depth, keeping the salad just as delicious and satisfying.
How long before serving should I dress the pasta salad?
For the most flavorful results, dress the salad at least two hours before serving. This resting time lets all the ingredients meld and soak up the delicious dressing.
Can I prepare this salad a day ahead?
Definitely! In fact, making it a day in advance enhances the flavors even more. Just store it covered in the fridge and give it a quick toss before serving.
What wine pairs well with this spaghetti salad?
A crisp, acidic white wine like Pinot Grigio or a light Rosé complements the bright, herby dressing and fresh vegetables perfectly without overpowering the salad’s delicate balance.
Final Thoughts
This Summer Italian Spaghetti Salad Recipe is hands down one of those dishes that brings sunshine to your plate no matter the season. It’s fresh, flavorful, and endlessly versatile—a true crowd-pleaser that’s as fun to make as it is to eat. Give it a try the next time you want to impress friends or simply treat yourself to something wonderful and easy. I promise it will become a favorite you return to again and again.
Print
Summer Italian Spaghetti Salad Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes plus 2 hours chilling
- Yield: 10 servings
- Category: Salad
- Method: Boiling
- Cuisine: Italian
Description
This Summer Italian Spaghetti Salad is a vibrant, refreshing dish perfect for warm-weather gatherings. Combining al dente spaghetti with fresh vegetables, savory salami, and a tangy homemade dressing, it offers a delicious balance of flavors and textures. The salad is chilled to meld the flavors, making it an ideal make-ahead option for picnics, barbecues, or light lunches.
Ingredients
Salad Ingredients
- 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
- ½ small red onion, diced
- ½ cup black olives, drained, thinly sliced
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt & pepper to taste
Dressing Ingredients
- 1 ½ cups extra virgin olive oil
- 3 tablespoons red wine vinegar
- 1 tablespoon dried oregano
- 1 ½ teaspoons dried basil
- 1 tablespoon fresh squeezed lemon juice
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 3 tablespoons Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook the spaghetti: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the halved thin spaghetti and cook until al dente, approximately 8 to 10 minutes. Drain the pasta and rinse it under cold water to stop the cooking process. Toss lightly with olive oil to prevent sticking, then refrigerate until fully cooled.
- Prepare the vegetables and salami: While the pasta cools, dice the cucumber, red onion, and green pepper. Halve the cherry tomatoes. Thinly slice the black olives and cut the salami into small pieces to prepare for the salad.
- Make the dressing: In a bowl, whisk together the extra virgin olive oil, red wine vinegar, dried oregano, dried basil, fresh squeezed lemon juice, minced garlic, Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper until the dressing is well combined and emulsified.
- Assemble the salad: Place the chilled spaghetti in a large bowl. Add the diced vegetables, sliced salami, and olives. Pour the dressing over the mixture and toss everything thoroughly to ensure even coating.
- Finish and chill: Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, sprinkle with paprika, and season with additional salt and pepper if necessary. Cover the salad and refrigerate for at least 2 hours to allow the flavors to meld before serving.
Notes
- For a vegetarian option, substitute salami with roasted vegetables or chickpeas.
- Make sure to rinse the cooked pasta with cold water to prevent overcooking and sticking.
- The salad tastes best when chilled for a few hours, but it can be served immediately if needed.
- Use good quality extra virgin olive oil for the dressing to enhance the flavor.
- Optional: Add fresh basil leaves for an extra fresh herb aroma.
