California Spaghetti Salad

by

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:

  1. 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.
  1. Prepare the Vegetables:
  • While the spaghetti is cooking, chop the cherry tomatoes, cucumber, bell pepper, red onion, and black olives.
  1. 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).
  1. 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.
  1. 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!

Leave a Comment