🍝 Mediterranean Spaghetti Pasta Salad

Fresh, Zesty & Perfect for Gatherings

📖 Description

This Mediterranean Spaghetti Pasta Salad is a vibrant, refreshing dish made with tender spaghetti, crisp cucumbers, juicy tomatoes, sweet bell peppers, olives, and fresh herbs — all tossed in a bright lemon-olive oil dressing.

It’s light yet satisfying, making it perfect for potlucks, meal prep, picnics, or as a side dish to grilled chicken or fish. The flavors deepen beautifully as it chills, making it even better the next day.

🛒 Ingredients (Serves 6–8)

For the Salad:

12 oz (340 g) spaghetti
1 cup cherry tomatoes, diced
1 large cucumber, diced
½ cup black or Kalamata olives, sliced
½ cup yellow bell pepper, diced
2 green onions, sliced
¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped
Optional: ½ cup crumbled feta cheese

For the Lemon Vinaigrette:

⅓ cup extra virgin olive oil
3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
1 clove garlic, minced
½ teaspoon dried oregano
Salt and black pepper to taste

👩‍🍳 Instructions

1️⃣ Cook the Pasta

Bring salted water to a boil.
Cook spaghetti until al dente.
Drain and rinse briefly with cool water to stop cooking.
Let drain completely.

2️⃣ Prepare the Vegetables

Dice cucumber, tomatoes, peppers, olives, and herbs.

3️⃣ Make the Dressing

In a jar or bowl, whisk olive oil, lemon juice, vinegar, Dijon, garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper until emulsified.

4️⃣ Assemble

In a large bowl, combine pasta and vegetables.
Pour dressing over and toss gently to coat evenly.
Add feta if using.

Refrigerate at least 30 minutes before serving.

🍽️ Serving Suggestions

Serve chilled or room temperature
Pair with grilled chicken, salmon, or lamb
Add chickpeas for extra protein
Drizzle extra olive oil before serving

🌿 Mediterranean Benefits

✔ Rich in fresh vegetables
✔ Heart-healthy olive oil
✔ High in fiber
✔ Balanced carbohydrates
✔ Great for meal prep

❓ Q & A

Q1: Can I use a different pasta shape?

Yes! Rotini, penne, or orzo work beautifully.

Q2: How long does it last?

Up to 3–4 days refrigerated in an airtight container.

Q3: Can I make it gluten-free?

Yes — use gluten-free pasta.

Q4: How do I keep it from drying out?

Reserve 2–3 tablespoons pasta water and mix into the dressing if needed.

Q5: Can I add protein?

Absolutely! Add grilled chicken, shrimp, tuna, or white beans.