Angel Hair Pasta Salad

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE?

If you’re looking for a bright and refreshing twist on your pasta routine, this Angel Hair Pasta Salad is exactly what your table needs. Light, colorful, and bursting with zesty Mediterranean flavor, it’s the kind of dish that works just as beautifully for a summer BBQ as it does for weekday meal prep.

Tossed with juicy cherry tomatoes, briny olives, sweet peppers, and fresh herbs, this salad is the ultimate showcase of simple ingredients done right. The thin strands of angel hair soak up all the tangy vinaigrette and marry each bite with bold, fresh character.

---

What Makes Angel Hair Pasta Perfect for Pasta Salad?

Angel hair pasta, also known as capellini, is much finer than traditional spaghetti, making it ideal for lighter dishes. In a pasta salad, it adds a delicate texture and allows the vibrant add-ins like veggies and vinaigrette to really shine. It’s quick to cook, which is a huge bonus when you’re short on time but still want something impressive.

---

Ingredients for the Angel Hair Pasta Salad

Angel Hair Pasta – The delicate base that ties everything together. It’s perfect for absorbing the flavors of the vinaigrette.

Cherry Tomatoes – These juicy little bursts add color and natural sweetness to balance the tangy dressing.

Bell Peppers – Use a mix of red, yellow, and orange for crunch and vibrant contrast.

Kalamata or Black Olives – Briny and bold, they bring that classic Mediterranean saltiness.

Red Onion – Adds a sharp bite that lifts the flavors of the whole salad.

Fresh Parsley – For a clean, herbaceous finish that brightens every forkful.

Vinaigrette Dressing – A simple mix of olive oil, vinegar, garlic, and seasoning brings everything together with a zesty punch.

---

How To Make the Angel Hair Pasta Salad

Step 1: Cook and Cool the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the angel hair pasta according to the package directions—usually just 3 to 4 minutes. Drain the pasta and rinse it under cold water to stop the cooking and cool it down quickly. Toss it lightly with a drizzle of olive oil to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Prep the Veggies

While the pasta cools, slice the cherry tomatoes in halves, thinly slice the bell peppers into strips, finely dice the red onion, and chop the fresh parsley. Keep the ingredients bite-sized so they blend evenly throughout the salad.

Step 3: Make the Vinaigrette

In a small bowl or jar, whisk together extra virgin olive oil, red or white wine vinegar, minced garlic, a pinch of salt, black pepper, and a hint of sugar if you like a touch of sweetness. Shake or stir well until emulsified.

Step 4: Toss It All Together

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta, chopped veggies, olives, and parsley. Pour the vinaigrette over everything and toss gently using tongs or clean hands to coat every strand and ingredient evenly.

Step 5: Chill and Serve

Let the salad rest in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving. This gives the flavors time to meld and deepen. Serve chilled or at room temperature for best texture and taste.

---

How to Serve and Store Angel Hair Pasta Salad

This pasta salad is best served chilled, making it ideal for summer gatherings or as a refreshing lunch. You can serve it as a vibrant side dish alongside grilled chicken, seafood, or kebabs—or enjoy it solo as a light, veggie-packed main.

To store, transfer leftovers to an airtight container and keep refrigerated for up to 3 days. The vinaigrette may settle at the bottom, so give it a gentle stir before serving again. If the pasta seems a bit dry after chilling, a quick splash of olive oil or vinegar can bring it right back to life.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I keep angel hair pasta from clumping?

After draining, rinse the pasta in cold water and toss it with a small amount of olive oil. This keeps it from sticking together as it cools.

Can I make this pasta salad ahead of time?

Yes! It actually tastes better after a few hours in the fridge. Just stir before serving and refresh with extra dressing if needed.

What other vegetables can I add?

Cucumbers, artichoke hearts, sun-dried tomatoes, or even baby spinach all make tasty additions.

Is this recipe vegan?

It sure is! Just double-check that your vinaigrette ingredients are plant-based. You can also add chickpeas for extra protein.

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely. While angel hair gives this salad its signature texture, you can swap in thin spaghetti, orzo, or vermicelli if you prefer.

How long does the salad stay fresh?

Stored in the fridge, it’s at its best within 2 to 3 days. Beyond that, the vegetables start to lose their crispness.

---

Want More Pasta Salad Ideas?

If you love this refreshing Angel Hair Pasta Salad, you might want to try these other delicious recipes from the site:

• Light Lemon Basil Pasta Salad with Chicken for a protein-packed twist.
• Creamy Broccoli and Chicken Penne if you’re in the mood for something warm and hearty.
• Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine for a buttery, spicy pasta option.
• Creamy Cajun Shrimp Pasta when you’re craving bold flavors with seafood.
• Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken and Rotini for another easy one-pan wonder.

Save This Pin + Share Your Results

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest salad or summer meal board so you can find it again when the craving strikes.

And if you try it, I’d love to hear how it turned out! Did you add feta or keep it dairy-free? Toss in some grilled veggies? Drop a comment below and let’s swap notes on making this pasta salad even better.

---

Print