20-Minute Spaghetti Salad Recipe

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This colorful and refreshing Spaghetti Salad is a perfect dish for all your gatherings! It's loaded with fresh veggies, olives, feta cheese, and a zesty homemade Italian dressing. Ready in just 20 minutes, it's an easy, make-ahead salad that tastes even better the next day.

Ingredients

• 16 oz spaghetti
• ¼ cup lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
• ¼ cup extra virgin olive oil
• 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
• 1 tablespoon honey
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 12 oz cherry tomatoes (red and yellow, halved)
• 2 medium cucumbers (sliced)
• ⅓ cup red onion (chopped)
• ⅓ cup black olives (sliced)
• ⅓ cup green olives (sliced)
• 4 oz crumbled feta cheese

(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Cook spaghetti according to the package instructions. Drain and rinse under cold water.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, honey, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
3. Add tomatoes, cucumbers, onions, and olives to the bowl. Toss well.
4. Add cooked pasta and feta cheese. Mix everything together, then season with extra salt, pepper, and lemon juice as desired.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 8
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 20 minutes

Variations

• Pasta: Swap spaghetti with any pasta you prefer like penne, fusilli, or rigatoni.
• Veggies: Try adding bell peppers, mushrooms, or sun-dried tomatoes.
• Cheese: Mozzarella, Parmesan, or goat cheese are excellent alternatives to feta.
• Protein: Add grilled chicken, shrimp

Store this salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. It tastes even better after a day or two as the flavors meld. Serve it chilled or at room temperature.

FAQs

How long can I keep Spaghetti Salad in the fridge?

You can refrigerate the salad for up to 4 days.

Can I use gluten-free pasta?

Yes, gluten-free pasta works perfectly in this salad.

Can I prepare this salad ahead of time?

Yes! This salad is ideal for making ahead and storing in the fridge.

How do I keep the pasta from getting soggy?

Rinse the pasta with cold water right after cooking and draining to stop the cooking process.

Can I use a store-bought dressing instead?

Yes, you can use Italian or Greek dressing instead of homemade.

What other cheeses can I use in this recipe?

You can use mozzarella, goat cheese, or Parmesan instead of feta.

Can I add meat to this salad?

Yes, grilled chicken, or shrimp would complement the salad well.

How do I make it spicier?

Add red pepper flakes or a chopped jalapeño to the dressing.

Can I add more vegetables?

Absolutely! Bell peppers, zucchini, and olives work great.

How do I make this dairy-free?

Use a dairy-free feta or omit the cheese entirely.

Conclusion

This 20-Minute Spaghetti Salad is the perfect dish for any occasion—whether it's a quick weeknight meal or a picnic favorite. Its fresh ingredients and versatile flavors will make it a hit every time. Give it a try and enjoy the vibrant, deliciousness!