Introduction:
California Spaghetti Salad is a vibrant and refreshing pasta salad packed with fresh vegetables, tangy Italian dressing, and tender spaghetti noodles. This easy-to-make dish is perfect for potlucks, picnics, or as a light summer meal. The combination of crisp veggies and flavorful dressing makes this salad a crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients:
For the Salad:
- 1 pound spaghetti, cooked and drained
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup cucumber, diced
- 1 cup bell pepper (any color), diced
- 1/2 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup black olives, sliced
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
For the Dressing:
- 1 cup Italian dressing
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a bit of heat)
Optional Additions:
- 1 cup broccoli florets, blanched
- 1 cup zucchini, diced
- 1/2 cup pepperoncini, sliced
- 1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
Instructions:
- Cook the Spaghetti:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process. Set aside.
- Prepare the Vegetables:
- While the spaghetti is cooking, chop the cherry tomatoes, cucumber, bell pepper, red onion, and black olives.
- Make the Dressing:
- In a small bowl, whisk together the Italian dressing, Parmesan cheese, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using).
- Combine Salad Ingredients:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked spaghetti, chopped vegetables, and fresh parsley. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss well to coat.
- Chill and Serve:
- Cover the salad and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to meld. Before serving, give it a good stir and garnish with additional Parmesan cheese and parsley if desired.
Tips for Success:
- Make sure to rinse the spaghetti with cold water to cool it down and prevent it from sticking together.
- For best flavor, let the salad chill for a few hours before serving.
- Feel free to customize the vegetables to your liking or what you have on hand.
Nutritional Estimate (per serving):
- Calories: 280
- Protein: 6g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fat: 12g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 6g
Recommendation:
California Spaghetti Salad is a versatile dish that pairs well with grilled meats, sandwiches, or as a stand-alone meal. It’s a great make-ahead option for gatherings as it tastes even better the next day. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Enjoy this colorful, flavorful salad for your next meal or event!
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