I first discovered this spaghetti salad at my neighbor’s backyard BBQ a few summers ago. You’ve probably had pasta salad before, but this isn’t your average potluck side dish.
Think al dente spaghetti tossed with crisp veggies, chunks of Wisconsin cheese, and a zesty Italian dressing that gets better by the hour. It’s a perfect mix of comfort food and fresh ingredients that’ll have everyone asking for your recipe.
Want to know the secret to making it unforgettable?
You’ll Love This Recipe Because…
It’s perfect for meal prep – make it ahead and enjoy better flavors the following day as ingredients marinate together.
Budget-friendly comfort food that feeds a crowd without breaking the bank, using simple pantry staples and fresh vegetables.
Incredibly versatile – customize with your favorite vegetables, proteins, or pasta shapes to suit your family’s preferences.
Quick and easy preparation with minimal cooking time. Just boil pasta and chop vegetables for a stress-free meal.
It’s packed with nutritious ingredients while still being kid-friendly, an ideal choice for family dinners or potlucks.
Spaghetti Salad Recipe
Spaghetti salad is a revitalizing twist on traditional pasta salad. It combines al dente spaghetti with crisp vegetables and a zesty Italian dressing.
Perfect for summer picnics, potlucks, or as a cool make-ahead meal during Wisconsin’s warm months.
Prep Time: 15 mins | Cook Time: 10 mins | Total Time: 25 mins | Serves: 8
Ingredients
- 1 pound of spaghetti
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved or whole
- 1 cucumber, chopped or diced
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped or diced
- 1/2 red onion, finely chopped
- 8 oz Wisconsin cheese cubes (mozzarella or cheddar)
- 1 cup Italian dressing
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
These ingredients create a balanced combination of textures and flavors. Spaghetti provides the base, while fresh vegetables add crunch and color. Wisconsin cheese adds protein and local flavor.
Feel free to substitute with rotini or penne pasta, or use different local vegetables in season. The dressing can be store-bought or homemade Italian vinaigrette.
Cooking Instructions
- Cook spaghetti according to package directions until al dente
- Drain pasta and rinse under cold water until completely cooled
- In a large bowl, combine the cooled pasta and all the chopped vegetables
- Add cheese cubes and Italian dressing
- Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese and Italian seasoning
- Toss everything together until well combined
- Season with salt and pepper to taste
- Refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving
Additional Tips & Tricks
Breaking the spaghetti in half before cooking makes it easier to toss and serve. For best results, prepare this salad the day before serving to allow flavors to meld.
If the salad seems dry after refrigeration, add a splash of dressing before serving. I often substitute greenhouse-grown produce to maintain the fresh flavor profile in winter
Serving Suggestions
- Grilled Wisconsin bratwurst from local butchers
- Fresh artisan bread from local bakeries
- Wisconsin craft beer or locally brewed root beer
- Local fruit plate for dessert
Nutritional Guide (per Serving)
Nutritional Information (per 1 cup serving):
- Calories: approximately 320
- Carbohydrates: approximately 42g
- Fat: approximately 14g
- Protein: approximately 8g
- Fiber: approximately 3g
- Sodium: approximately 580mg
Note: Nutritional values may vary depending on specific brands of ingredients used and actual portion sizes served. The values provided are estimates only.
Additional tips:
- Sodium content can be reduced by using homemade dressing
- Portion control is recommended as pasta dishes are typically calorie-dense
- Fresh vegetables add nutritional value to this dish
Great Cooking Begins With the Right Tools
Ready to make this delicious spaghetti salad? As a professional chef and busy dad, I know firsthand that having the right kitchen tools makes all the difference.
While you can craft this recipe with basic equipment, quality cookware elevates both the experience and the final result.
After years in professional kitchens and cooking countless family meals, I’ve curated a collection of essential tools that deliver consistent results. From perfectly cooked pasta to uniformly chopped vegetables, the right equipment helps you work more efficiently and enjoyably.
I’ve assembled my favorite kitchen essentials – the same ones I use daily both professionally and at home – in a curated collection here.
Whether you’re an experienced home cook or just starting your culinary journey, investing in reliable kitchen tools is important for your cooking success.
Pasta dishes like this spaghetti salad call for tools and preparation techniques that make the final texture and presentation quick and easy.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you make it ahead?
You can prepare this dish 1-2 days in advance. The flavors develop and improve after sitting in the refrigerator overnight.
Should you rinse the pasta?
Yes, rinsing is necessary for pasta salads to stop them from cooking and prevent the noodles from becoming sticky.
How long do leftovers last?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days.
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue or need a quick potluck dish, this spaghetti salad never disappoints.
It’s my go-to recipe when I need something that feeds a crowd and travels well. Trust me, I’ve hauled this to countless summer gatherings, and the bowl always comes home empty.
And I love that I can make it my very own by using other in-season local produce, trying different-style Italian dressings, or even tossing in some other types of Wisconsin cheese chunks. I sometimes top it with fresh salsa.
My kids love helping me make it, especially breaking the spaghetti into pieces. It’s just one of those foolproof recipes that makes everyone happy.
