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- 8 oz cooked spaghetti - 1 cup cherry tomatoes - 1 medium cucumber - 1 large red bell pepper - 1 cup fresh mozzarella balls - 1/4 cup black olives - 1/4 cup red onion - 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves - 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil - 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar - 1 teaspoon garlic powder - Salt and black pepper This spaghetti salad is bright and tasty. You can make it with fresh, simple ingredients. Start with 8 oz of cooked spaghetti. Ensure it is well-cooled and drained. This makes the salad nice and light. Next, grab 1 cup of cherry tomatoes. Halve them to release their juicy flavor. Then, take 1 medium cucumber and dice it into small pieces. This adds crunch and freshness. Now, find a large red bell pepper. Dice it up to give the salad a sweet taste. Add 1 cup of fresh mozzarella balls, cut in half. They will melt in your mouth! For a salty kick, include 1/4 cup of black olives, sliced into rings. Then, add 1/4 cup of red onion, finely chopped. This gives your salad a bit of bite. To finish, add a handful of fresh basil leaves. They add a fragrant aroma and taste. For the dressing, use 1/4 cup of extra-virgin olive oil and 2 tablespoons of balsamic vinegar. Add 1 teaspoon of garlic powder for a nice zing. Don’t forget salt and black pepper to taste. This combination makes a delicious spaghetti salad. You’ll find it colorful, fresh, and full of flavor! You can follow the Full Recipe for detailed instructions on how to make this dish. 1. In a large bowl, combine spaghetti with vegetables and cheese. Start with the cooled spaghetti. Add the cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red bell pepper, mozzarella balls, black olives, and red onion. Gently toss these ingredients. Be careful not to break the spaghetti. 2. Next, prepare the dressing. In a smaller bowl, whisk together the olive oil, balsamic vinegar, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until the dressing is smooth and well combined. 3. Then, mix dressings with the salad. Drizzle the dressing over the spaghetti mixture. Use a spatula to toss everything together. Make sure all the ingredients are coated with the dressing. 1. Now, fold in fresh basil. Add the chopped basil leaves carefully. Avoid tearing them too much. This helps keep their bright flavor. 2. After that, refrigerate the salad. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid. Let it chill for at least 30 minutes. This time helps the flavors blend. 3. Finally, serve and present. When ready, take the salad out of the fridge. Give it a gentle toss again. Serve it in bowls or on plates. Enjoy this fresh and flavorful dish! For the complete recipe, check out the Full Recipe. - Overcooking the spaghetti: Cook your spaghetti until it is al dente. This means it should be firm but not hard. Overcooked pasta can turn mushy and ruin the dish. - Skipping the resting time: Letting the salad rest in the fridge is key. The flavors will blend better and taste amazing after sitting for at least 30 minutes. - Alternatives for fresh mozzarella: If you can’t find fresh mozzarella, use cubed feta cheese or shredded cheddar. Both add a nice twist to the salad. - Options for dressing variations: Try using lemon juice instead of balsamic vinegar for a zestier flavor. You can also mix in some Italian herbs to change the taste. - Best pairings for spaghetti salad: This salad pairs well with grilled chicken or shrimp. Add a protein for a filling meal. - Creative serving ideas: Serve the salad in mason jars for a fun look. You can also layer the ingredients in a clear bowl to show off the colors. {{image_4}} You can make this spaghetti salad your own by changing the ingredients. For protein, add cooked chicken or shrimp for a heartier dish. These proteins complement the salad well, adding both flavor and texture. If you prefer a vegetarian option, try adding chickpeas or diced avocado. Chickpeas bring a nutty taste, while avocado adds creaminess. Both options offer a healthy, satisfying boost. To enhance the flavor of your spaghetti salad, consider adding spices and herbs. Fresh herbs like parsley or dill can brighten the dish. You can also try adding a pinch of red pepper flakes for a bit of heat. For a richer taste, experiment with different vinegars or oils. Apple cider vinegar can add a sweet touch, while lemon juice gives a fresh zing. Using flavored oils, such as garlic-infused or chili oil, can also boost the overall taste. Each tweak offers a new spin on this fresh dish. For the full recipe, check out the Spaghetti Salad Extravaganza. To keep your spaghetti salad fresh, use airtight containers. Glass containers work best. They help prevent odors and keep the salad crisp. If you don't have glass containers, plastic ones are fine. Just ensure they seal well. Store the salad in the fridge right after serving. This keeps it cool and safe. Don’t leave it out for too long. The longer it sits at room temp, the more likely it can spoil. Your spaghetti salad can last for about 3 to 5 days in the fridge. After that, its taste and texture may change. Check for signs of spoilage. If the salad has an off smell or looks mushy, it’s best to throw it away. Freshness is key to enjoying this dish fully. For more ways to make the most of your spaghetti salad, check the Full Recipe. Yes, you can make spaghetti salad ahead of time. It tastes even better after sitting. I recommend preparing it a few hours before serving. This allows the flavors to blend well. Just remember to keep it in the fridge. Cover it tightly to keep it fresh. For this salad, I like using regular spaghetti or thin spaghetti. These noodles hold the dressing nicely. You can also try whole wheat or gluten-free spaghetti. They add a different taste and texture. Make sure to cook the spaghetti until it’s al dente. This keeps it firm in the salad. Yes, you can make spaghetti salad gluten-free. Choose gluten-free pasta made from rice or corn. This way, everyone can enjoy the dish. Just follow the cooking instructions on the package. The rest of the ingredients in the salad are usually gluten-free too. To make spaghetti salad vegetarian, simply skip any meat. You can add more veggies like bell peppers or carrots. Chickpeas or beans are great for protein. They add flavor and texture. Fresh herbs like parsley or dill can also brighten the dish. Enjoy your tasty vegetarian spaghetti salad! This blog shows you how to make a tasty spaghetti salad. You learned about fresh ingredients, step-by-step prep, and tricks to avoid common mistakes. I shared ideas for variations and tips for storing leftovers. Spaghetti salad is versatile and fun. Feel free to mix and match flavors. Enjoy creating your own versions and wow your friends! With this knowledge, you can make the best spaghetti salad.

- Spaghetti Salad Recipe

Elevate your summer gatherings with a delightful Spaghetti Salad Extravaganza! This vibrant recipe combines fresh ingredients like cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and mozzarella for a tasty twist on a classic. Tossed in a homemade olive oil and balsamic dressing, this salad is perfect for any occasion. Discover how to whip up this refreshing dish in just 45 minutes. Click through for the full recipe and impress your guests today!
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Ingredients
  

8 oz cooked spaghetti, thoroughly cooled and drained

1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved lengthwise

1 medium cucumber, diced into bite-sized pieces

1 large red bell pepper, diced

1 cup fresh mozzarella balls, cut in half

1/4 cup black olives, sliced into rings

1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped

1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, roughly chopped

1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil

2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar

1 teaspoon garlic powder

Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

Instructions
 

In a spacious mixing bowl, combine the cooled spaghetti with the halved cherry tomatoes, diced cucumber, diced red bell pepper, halved mozzarella balls, sliced black olives, and finely chopped red onion. Gently toss to mix the ingredients without breaking the spaghetti.

    In a separate smaller bowl, whisk together the extra-virgin olive oil, balsamic vinegar, garlic powder, along with a pinch of salt and freshly ground black pepper. Continue whisking until the mixture is well emulsified and cohesive.

      Drizzle the prepared dressing over the spaghetti salad mixture. Using a spatula or large spoon, gently toss everything together to ensure that each ingredient is evenly coated in the flavorful dressing.

        Carefully fold in the chopped fresh basil leaves, taking care not to tear them as this will help keep their vibrant flavor intact.

          Cover the bowl tightly with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate the salad for at least 30 minutes. This resting time allows the flavors to meld beautifully.

            When ready to serve, remove the salad from the refrigerator and give it a gentle toss to redistribute the ingredients. Serve chilled in bowls or on plates, and enjoy!

              Prep Time: 15 mins | Total Time: 45 mins | Servings: 4

                - Presentation Tips: For an added touch, serve the salad in clear glass bowls to showcase the colorful ingredients, and garnish with extra basil leaves for a pop of freshness.