Cold Spaghetti Salad With French Dressing
Summer is the perfect time to enjoy light and refreshing meals that won't leave you feeling weighed down. One dish that fits the bill is cold spaghetti salad with French dressing. This dish is easy to make, versatile, and perfect for picnics, potlucks, or as a side dish to your favorite grilled meats. In this article, we'll take a closer look at this delicious recipe and explore its many variations.
What You'll Need
To make cold spaghetti salad with French dressing, you'll need the following ingredients:
- 1 pound spaghetti
- 1/2 cup French dressing
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
- 1/2 cup diced red onion
- 1/2 cup diced red bell pepper
- 1/2 cup diced green bell pepper
- 1/2 cup sliced black olives
- 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
To make the salad, start by cooking the spaghetti according to package instructions. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process. In a large bowl, combine the spaghetti with the remaining ingredients and toss well to coat with the French dressing. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Variations
Cold spaghetti salad with French dressing is a versatile dish that can be customized to suit your preferences. Here are just a few variations to consider:
Vegetarian
If you're a vegetarian, you can omit the feta cheese and add more vegetables to the salad. Try adding diced cucumber, shredded carrots, or chopped cherry tomatoes for extra color and flavor.
Meat Lovers
If you're a meat lover, you can add some protein to the salad. Grilled chicken, shrimp, or sliced steak all work well. Simply cook the protein separately and add it to the salad before tossing with the dressing.
Asian-Inspired
If you're looking for a more exotic twist on the classic recipe, try adding some Asian-inspired ingredients. Thinly sliced snow peas, chopped peanuts, and a splash of soy sauce can all add a unique flavor to the dish.
Tips and Tricks
Here are a few tips and tricks to keep in mind when making cold spaghetti salad with French dressing:
- Don't overcook the spaghetti. You want it to be al dente so that it holds its shape in the salad.
- Use a good quality French dressing. You can make your own or use a store-bought brand, but make sure it has a good flavor.
- Feel free to adjust the seasoning to your liking. If you like your food spicy, add some red pepper flakes. If you prefer a milder flavor, omit the cilantro.
- Make the salad ahead of time to allow the flavors to meld together. It will taste even better the next day.
Conclusion
Cold spaghetti salad with French dressing is a delicious and refreshing summer dish that's perfect for any occasion. With its many variations and customizable ingredients, you can make this dish your own and enjoy it all season long. So grab some spaghetti, chop up some veggies, and get ready to enjoy a dish that's sure to become a summer favorite.
