Angel Hair Pasta Salad

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Light, fresh, and bursting with Mediterranean flavors, Angel Hair Pasta Salad is the kind of dish that feels like sunshine on a plate. With delicate strands of angel hair tossed in a zesty dressing, juicy cherry tomatoes, black olives, sweet bell peppers, and fresh parsley, every bite is a celebration of color and taste.

Perfect for summer picnics, potlucks, or as a quick weeknight dinner, this pasta salad is a crowd-pleaser. It comes together in no time and keeps beautifully in the fridge, making it a fantastic make-ahead option. Whether you serve it chilled or at room temperature, it’s sure to brighten up your table.

What Kind of Pasta Should I Use?

Angel hair pasta is the star here, with its delicate, thin strands that soak up dressing beautifully without feeling heavy. If you prefer something a little sturdier, thin spaghetti or capellini can work as substitutes. Just be sure not to overcook the pasta — you want it tender but still with a little bite.

Ingredients for the Angel Hair Pasta Salad

  • Angel Hair Pasta: The delicate base that holds all the flavors together.
  • Cherry Tomatoes: Add juicy bursts of sweetness and a pop of color.
  • Black Olives: Provide a salty, briny balance to the fresh veggies.
  • Bell Peppers (red, yellow, orange): Bring crunch, sweetness, and vibrant color.
  • Fresh Parsley: Adds a touch of herby freshness and a bright green finish.
  • Parmesan Cheese: Light sprinkle for a savory, nutty kick.
  • Olive Oil and Lemon Juice: Form the simple, zesty dressing that ties everything together.
  • Salt and Pepper: Essential for balancing all the flavors.

How To Make the Angel Hair Pasta Salad

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the angel hair pasta and cook according to package instructions, usually 3-4 minutes, until just al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking and cool the pasta.

Step 2: Prep the Vegetables

While the pasta cooks, chop the cherry tomatoes in halves, dice the bell peppers, and slice the black olives. Roughly chop the fresh parsley.

Step 3: Make the Dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, fresh lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.

Step 4: Toss Everything Together

In a large bowl, combine the cooled pasta, tomatoes, bell peppers, olives, and parsley. Drizzle with the dressing and toss gently to coat everything evenly.

Step 5: Finish with Parmesan

Sprinkle grated Parmesan over the top and give it one last gentle toss. Serve immediately or chill in the fridge until ready to enjoy.

Serving and Storing Angel Hair Pasta Salad

This pasta salad shines when served slightly chilled or at room temperature. It’s perfect for outdoor gatherings because it holds up well without getting soggy. To store, place leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Give it a fresh drizzle of olive oil and a sprinkle of lemon juice before serving to revive the flavors.

Frequently Asked Questions

How can I prevent the pasta from sticking?

Rinse the cooked pasta under cold water and toss it with a little olive oil before mixing in the other ingredients.

Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Absolutely! In fact, making it a few hours ahead allows the flavors to meld beautifully.

What protein can I add?

Grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas make great additions for extra protein.

Can I use a different cheese?

Yes! Feta or mozzarella pearls are tasty alternatives to Parmesan.

How do I make it gluten-free?

Simply swap in your favorite gluten-free angel hair pasta.

Want More Pasta Salad Ideas?

If you love this Angel Hair Pasta Salad, you’ll probably enjoy these other favorites:

• Cheesy Spinach Stuffed Shells for a creamy, indulgent twist.
• Chicken Mushroom Stroganoff if you crave comforting, hearty flavors.
• Beef and Bowtie Pasta with Alfredo Sauce for a rich and satisfying dinner.
• Cajun Ranch Shrimp and Sausage Pasta Skillet if you like it spicy and bold.
• Spicy Cajun Garlic Butter Sausage Pasta for a fiery and flavorful experience.

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And let me know in the comments how yours turned out! Did you add shrimp or go veggie? Maybe you swapped in feta cheese?

I love hearing how you make these recipes your own. Questions are always welcome — let’s help each other make delicious meals!

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Angel Hair Pasta Salad

  • Author: Olivia McKenney
  • Total Time: 15 minutes
  • Yield: 4-6 servings
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Description

A light and fresh pasta salad made with delicate angel hair, tossed in a zesty lemon dressing with cherry tomatoes, olives, bell peppers, parsley, and Parmesan. Perfect for picnics, potlucks, or an easy dinner.

Ingredients

8 oz angel hair pasta

1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

1/2 cup black olives, sliced

1 cup bell peppers (red, yellow, orange), diced

1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped

1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

1/4 cup olive oil

2 tbsp fresh lemon juice

Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Bring a pot of salted water to a boil and cook angel hair pasta 3-4 minutes until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water.
  2. Chop cherry tomatoes, dice bell peppers, slice olives, and chop parsley.
  3. In a small bowl, whisk olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
  4. In a large bowl, combine pasta, vegetables, and dressing. Toss gently.
  5. Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese and toss again. Serve immediately or chill.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 5 minutes
  • Category: Dinner

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