Delicious Angel Hair Pasta

This chilled angel hair pasta salad has become my go-to dish for potlucks and family gatherings, combining the perfect balance of tangy Italian dressing and creamy mayonnaise for a refreshing meal that disappears quickly.

I first created this pasta salad for a neighborhood block party where I needed something that could sit out safely for hours. Three neighbors asked for the recipe that same night, and it has been my signature dish ever since.

Ingredients

• Angel hair pasta: The delicate strands absorb flavor beautifully while maintaining a pleasant texture
• Black olives: These add a mild briny flavor that balances the acidity of the dressing
• Shaved carrots: Adds natural sweetness and beautiful color contrast
• Cherry tomatoes: Provides bursts of juicy freshness in every bite
• Mayonnaise: Creates the creamy base that coats every strand of pasta
• Italian dressing: Brings all the herbs and tanginess needed without extra measuring
• Cavenders Greek Seasoning: This secret ingredient adds complex flavor without having to measure multiple spices

Step-by-Step Instructions

Cook the Pasta:

Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the angel hair pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente, usually about 4 to 6 minutes. Be careful not to overcook as angel hair can quickly become mushy. Test a strand at the minimum cooking time to ensure perfect texture.

Cool the Pasta:

Immediately drain the pasta in a colander and rinse thoroughly under cold water. Toss the pasta while rinsing to ensure every strand is cooled completely. This stops the cooking process and prevents the pasta from sticking together. Allow to drain completely for about 5 minutes.

Combine Ingredients:

Transfer the cooled pasta to a large mixing bowl. Add the sliced black olives, shaved carrots, and halved cherry tomatoes. Pour in the mayonnaise and Italian dressing. Sprinkle the Cavenders Greek seasoning over everything. Using two large spoons or tongs, gently fold all ingredients together until the pasta is evenly coated with dressing.

Chill and Serve:

Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least one hour to allow flavors to meld. For best results, stir once halfway through chilling time. Serve cold as a side dish or light meal. If desired, garnish with additional fresh herbs before serving.

Pin

The Cavenders Greek seasoning is truly the magic ingredient in this recipe. I discovered it by accident when I was out of Italian seasoning one day and needed a substitute. The blend of salt, pepper, and multiple herbs gives this salad a flavor complexity that has guests wondering what my secret ingredient might be.

Perfect Storage

This pasta salad maintains its quality remarkably well in the refrigerator. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days. The flavors actually continue to develop overnight, making this an excellent meal prep option. If you notice the pasta has absorbed much of the dressing after storage, simply refresh it with a small drizzle of olive oil or additional Italian dressing and toss gently before serving again.

Easy Modifications

This recipe welcomes countless variations based on what you have available. Try adding diced bell peppers for crunch, pepperoni for a protein boost, or cubed mozzarella for creaminess. For a Greek twist, include crumbled feta cheese and cucumbers. Vegetable lovers can double the amount of carrots and tomatoes or add blanched broccoli florets. The base dressing works wonderfully with any combination you choose.

Serving Suggestions

While perfect on its own, this pasta salad pairs beautifully with grilled chicken or fish for a complete summer meal. Serve it alongside burgers at your next barbecue or as part of a buffet spread. For a beautiful presentation, serve in a glass bowl to showcase the colorful ingredients, and garnish with fresh basil leaves or a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese just before serving.

Recipe Questions & Answers

→ What type of dressing works best for this salad?

An Italian dressing paired with mayonnaise creates a tangy and creamy base that balances perfectly with the fresh vegetables and pasta.

→ Can I substitute angel hair pasta?

Yes, other thin pasta types like spaghetti or capellini can work well, but the delicate texture of angel hair is preferred for this dish.

→ How should I store leftover pasta salad?

Store leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Stir before serving to refresh the flavors.

→ Can I customize the vegetables?

Absolutely! Feel free to add or substitute with veggies like bell peppers, cucumbers, or red onions for more variety and flavor.

→ Is this dish suitable for meal prep?

Yes, this salad is ideal for meal prep as it keeps well and tastes even better after chilling for a day.