Angel Hair Pasta Salad

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I love recipes that come together in minutes but still feel fresh, vibrant, and satisfying. This Angel Hair Pasta Salad has quickly become one of my go-to dishes for warm days or busy weeknights when I want something light yet flavorful. With just a handful of fresh ingredients, it captures the brightness of summer in every forkful. Think sweet cherry tomatoes, fragrant basil, tangy feta, and a hint of briny olives—tossed together with tender angel hair pasta and a drizzle of olive oil. It’s uncomplicated, but that’s exactly what makes it beautiful.

I first made this dish on a whim when I had leftover pasta and a garden full of cherry tomatoes. The simplicity surprised me. It didn’t need creamy dressings or complicated techniques—just high-quality ingredients and a quick toss in a bowl. Whether served chilled or at room temperature, it tastes like sunshine in a plate. Perfect for picnics, potlucks, or solo dinners on the porch, it’s a recipe that never overstays its welcome.

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Why You’ll Love This Angel Hair Pasta Salad

• Quick & easy – Ready in under 20 minutes from start to finish.
• Fresh & colorful – Uses bright seasonal ingredients that pop with flavor.
• Versatile – Works as a main or a side, warm or cold.
• Make-ahead friendly – Even better after chilling for a bit.
• Healthyish – Light and balanced with veggies, herbs, and olive oil.

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What Kind of Angel Hair Pasta Should I Use?

Angel hair pasta, also known as capellini, is incredibly thin and delicate, which makes it ideal for light dishes like this pasta salad. I usually go for a traditional durum wheat version because it holds up well when tossed with olive oil and fresh veggies. If you prefer a bit more texture, feel free to use slightly thicker spaghetti, though keep in mind it won’t have that same silky finish that angel hair provides.

For those looking for gluten-free options, several brands offer excellent rice or corn-based angel hair alternatives that won’t fall apart after cooking. The key is not to overcook it—just until al dente—and rinse with cool water right after boiling to stop the cooking process.

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Options for Substitutions

You can make this salad your own by swapping ingredients based on what’s in your fridge or pantry. Here are some simple, tasty substitutions:

• Cheese – Swap feta for goat cheese, fresh mozzarella pearls, or even grated parmesan for a different flavor profile.
• Olives – Kalamata or Castelvetrano olives add richness, but you can leave them out or use green olives for a milder taste.
• Tomatoes – Cherry tomatoes are sweet and juicy, but grape tomatoes or diced Roma tomatoes will work just as well.
• Greens – Fresh basil is amazing here, but arugula, baby spinach, or chopped parsley are great alternatives.
• Add-ins – Want more protein? Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas. Craving crunch? Toss in pine nuts or toasted almonds.

Feel free to experiment—the base is super flexible and always turns out delicious.

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Ingredients for This Angel Hair Pasta Salad

• Angel Hair Pasta
  The foundation of the dish—light, thin, and perfect for soaking up olive oil and flavor without overwhelming the delicate toppings.
• Cherry Tomatoes
  These bring a burst of sweetness and juiciness to each bite. I like using a mix of red and yellow for extra color and flavor contrast.
• Fresh Basil
  Adds aromatic freshness and that unmistakable summery herbaceous note. It balances the saltiness and acidity of other ingredients.
• Crumbled Feta Cheese
  Salty, tangy, and creamy—it melts slightly into the pasta and adds richness without needing a heavy dressing.
• Black Olives
  They bring a briny depth that complements the tomatoes and cheese. Slice them or use them whole depending on your preference.
• Olive Oil
  A good-quality extra virgin olive oil is essential here. It coats the pasta, ties everything together, and adds that luxurious mouthfeel.
• Salt & Pepper
  Simple but necessary. These elevate the natural flavors of all the fresh ingredients without overpowering them.

Optional but wonderful extras include a splash of lemon juice, minced garlic, or a dash of red pepper flakes for gentle heat.

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Step 1: Cook the Angel Hair Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the angel hair pasta and cook according to the package instructions, usually 3–5 minutes. Drain immediately and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking. Set aside.

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Step 2: Prepare the Vegetables and Herbs

While the pasta cools, slice the cherry tomatoes in halves (or quarters if they’re larger), and roughly chop or chiffonade the fresh basil. Slice or chop the black olives if you prefer them smaller.

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Step 3: Make the Base Mix

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta with the cherry tomatoes, black olives, and fresh basil. Toss gently to distribute evenly.

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Step 4: Add Cheese and Olive Oil

Sprinkle in the crumbled feta and drizzle with a generous amount of olive oil—just enough to coat everything lightly without making it greasy. Add salt and pepper to taste.

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Step 5: Toss and Taste

Use tongs or clean hands to toss the salad gently, making sure all ingredients are well mixed and coated in the oil. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.

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Step 6: Chill or Serve

You can serve the salad immediately at room temperature, or cover and chill in the refrigerator for 20–30 minutes for a more refreshing version. Both are equally delicious.

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How Long to Cook the Angel Hair Pasta Salad

The only cooking involved here is the pasta itself, and angel hair cooks very quickly—typically in just 3 to 5 minutes in boiling salted water. Once drained and rinsed, the rest of the recipe is all assembly. The entire dish can be ready to serve in under 20 minutes, including prep time.

If you plan to chill the salad before serving, give it an extra 20 to 30 minutes in the fridge to let the flavors mingle and the pasta cool completely.

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Tips for Perfect Angel Hair Pasta Salad

• Don’t overcook the pasta – Angel hair goes from perfect to mushy fast. Keep a close eye and pull it as soon as it’s al dente.
• Cool the pasta properly – Rinsing under cold water not only stops cooking but also keeps the noodles from clumping.
• Use ripe, sweet tomatoes – The better the tomatoes, the brighter the flavor. Cherry or grape tomatoes are ideal.
• Toss gently – Angel hair is delicate. Use tongs or your hands to combine ingredients without breaking the pasta.
• Let it rest – If you have time, let the salad chill. It tastes even better once the flavors have had a chance to meld.
• Finish with a fresh drizzle – Just before serving, a little more olive oil and a few fresh basil leaves on top can really elevate the dish.

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Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

• Overcooking the Pasta
  Because angel hair is so thin, it cooks fast. Going even a minute too long can result in a soggy texture that doesn’t hold up in salad form.
• Not Rinsing After Cooking
  Unlike with hot pasta dishes, you’ll want to rinse angel hair with cold water after boiling to stop the cooking and prevent sticking.
• Using Too Little Salt in the Water
  Salted water is your first chance to season the pasta. Without it, the entire dish can taste under-seasoned.
• Skipping Quality Ingredients
  Since this recipe is simple, the quality of each item matters. Use ripe tomatoes, good olive oil, and fresh basil whenever possible.
• Drenching with Olive Oil
  A light drizzle is all you need. Too much oil can weigh down the salad and mask the fresh flavors.
• Tossing Too Aggressively
  Angel hair is fragile. Be gentle when mixing to keep it from breaking apart.

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What to Serve With Angel Hair Pasta Salad?

Grilled Chicken Skewers

The light seasoning and smoky char of grilled chicken pairs beautifully with the cool, tangy pasta salad.

Garlic Bread or Toasted Baguette

A crunchy slice of bread is the perfect vehicle for scooping up extra bites of tomato and cheese.

Lemon Herb Shrimp

Citrusy shrimp add a bright seafood complement that enhances the salad’s Mediterranean flavors.

Roasted Vegetables

Think zucchini, bell peppers, and eggplant—roasted and served warm or cold on the side.

Cold Sliced Steak

For a heartier meal, thinly sliced steak adds satisfying protein without overpowering the freshness of the salad.

Hard-Boiled Eggs

Simple and protein-rich, they pair nicely with the briny olives and creamy feta.

A Crisp White Wine

Something like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio makes for an ideal beverage pairing.

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Storage Instructions

Angel Hair Pasta Salad stores quite well, making it a great make-ahead option. Place any leftovers in an airtight container and store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Since angel hair is so delicate, it may absorb some of the olive oil and moisture over time. Before serving leftovers, give the salad a gentle toss and consider adding a splash of olive oil or a squeeze of lemon juice to refresh the flavors.

Avoid freezing, as the texture of both the pasta and the fresh ingredients (especially tomatoes and basil) doesn’t hold up well after thawing.

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Estimated Nutrition

Here’s a general estimate for one serving (based on 6 servings total):

• Calories: 320
• Total Fat: 14g
• Saturated Fat: 4g
• Cholesterol: 15mg
• Sodium: 420mg
• Carbohydrates: 38g
• Fiber: 3g
• Sugars: 4g
• Protein: 9g

Note: These values can vary based on exact ingredients and portions used.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How far in advance can I make angel hair pasta salad?

You can make it up to a day ahead. In fact, the flavors often improve after a few hours in the fridge. Just give it a quick toss and a touch of olive oil before serving.

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely. While angel hair is delicate and quick-cooking, you can substitute with thin spaghetti, vermicelli, or even orzo for a heartier texture.

Should I serve this warm or cold?

It’s delicious both ways! Most people prefer it chilled or at room temperature, but if you’re tossing it with freshly cooked pasta, serving it slightly warm is lovely too.

What can I add to make it more filling?

Grilled chicken, tuna, shrimp, or chickpeas are excellent protein boosters. You could also add avocado or roasted veggies for extra heartiness.

Can I make it vegan?

Yes. Just skip the feta or use a plant-based feta alternative. Everything else is naturally vegan-friendly.

How do I keep the pasta from sticking together?

Rinse the pasta under cold water right after cooking, and toss it with a drizzle of olive oil immediately. This helps prevent clumping.

Is it okay to use dried herbs instead of fresh?

Fresh basil is best, but in a pinch, use a small amount of dried basil—about 1/3 the amount of fresh, since dried is more concentrated.

Can I double the recipe for a party?

Definitely! This salad scales up easily and is perfect for feeding a crowd. Just use a large bowl and toss gently to combine.

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Conclusion

Angel Hair Pasta Salad is one of those recipes that feels effortless yet always impresses. It’s fresh, flavorful, and endlessly customizable—perfect for busy weeknights, relaxed summer lunches, or casual get-togethers. Whether you keep it classic with tomatoes and basil or add your own twist, it’s a dish that brings lightness and joy to the table. Keep it simple, and let the ingredients shine.

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