First, start by cooking the spaghetti noodles according to the package directions. It’s best to prepare them al dente, so they hold up well in the salad. Keep an eye on the time, as overcooked pasta can become mushy.
Once cooked, drain the spaghetti and rinse it under cold water. This stops the cooking process and helps cool the noodles down quickly. You want them to be nice and chilled before combining.
Now, grab a large bowl. You really want a big one for this step! Add all your diced vegetables—the green pepper, red onion, cucumber, cherry tomatoes, and black olives. The colors will be beautiful, and the crunch will be inviting.
Add in the cooled spaghetti to the bowl with the veggies. This is where the magic starts to happen. Gently toss everything together to combine. You want all the ingredients to start mingling!
Next, it’s time to season your salad. Sprinkle in the garlic powder, onion powder, pepper, and salt. Give everything another gentle toss to ensure the seasonings are well distributed throughout.
Finally, pour the Italian dressing over the top of the salad. Stir carefully to combine all the flavors without breaking the noodles or veggies. The dressing should coat everything nicely, making it deliciously flavorful.
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and place it in the refrigerator. Allow the Spaghetti Salad to chill for at least two hours. This resting time is crucial as it lets the flavors intensify and develop.
When you're ready to serve, simply remove the bowl from the fridge, give it a quick stir, and enjoy! You'll find that each bite is a burst of flavor and freshness.
