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Italian Spaghetti Salad with Spinach: A Delightful Recipe for Every Occasion

Italian Spaghetti Salad with Spinach
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A refreshing Italian-inspired spaghetti salad with tender pasta, baby spinach, cherry tomatoes, olives, and mozzarella, all tossed in a bright lemon-herb vinaigrette. Perfect for picnics, potlucks, or as a make-ahead lunch!

Ingredients

Scale
  • 8 oz spaghetti, broken in half
  • 4 cups fresh baby spinach, roughly chopped
  • 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
  • 1/2 cup black olives, sliced
  • 1/2 cup pepperoncini, sliced (optional)
  • 8 oz fresh mozzarella pearls (or cubed)
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
  • Dressing:
  • 1/3 cup extra virgin olive oil
  • 3 tablespoons lemon juice
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • 1 teaspoon honey
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

Instructions

  1. Cook pasta: Boil spaghetti according to package directions until al dente. Drain and rinse with cold water to cool.
  2. Make dressing: Whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, Italian seasoning, honey, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes in a small bowl.
  3. Combine: In a large bowl, mix cooled spaghetti, spinach, tomatoes, red onion, olives, pepperoncini, and mozzarella.
  4. Toss: Pour dressing over salad and gently toss until evenly coated.
  5. Finish: Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese and fresh basil. Toss lightly.
  6. Chill: Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving to allow flavors to blend.

Notes

  • Make ahead: Stores well for up to 3 days (add extra spinach just before serving).
  • Protein boost: Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas.
  • Vegetarian option: Omit pepperoncini and use vegetarian Parmesan.
  • Gluten-free: Use gluten-free spaghetti.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://us.recipesfood.org/italian-spaghetti-salad-with-spinach/

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