Description
California Spaghetti Salad is a vibrant and refreshing dish packed with fresh vegetables and tossed in a zesty Italian dressing. Perfect for potlucks, picnics, or a light summer meal, this salad combines the crunch of fresh veggies with the tang of Italian dressing, making it a delicious and colorful addition to any meal. The variety of textures and flavors will make this dish a standout favorite at your next gathering!
Who is this Recipe For?
This salad is perfect for anyone looking for a refreshing, colorful, and easy-to-make side dish. It’s ideal for those who enjoy pasta salads with a mix of fresh vegetables and a tangy dressing. It’s also a great way to incorporate a variety of veggies into a meal, making it suitable for vegetarians or anyone looking to add more plant-based dishes to their diet.
Why It’s Great
- Colorful and Flavorful: A variety of fresh vegetables adds color and crunch, while the Italian dressing brings a zesty flavor.
- Easy to Prepare: Simple ingredients and easy steps make this salad a breeze to put together.
- Versatile: Great as a side dish, main course, or for meal prep. Perfect for picnics, potlucks, or family dinners.
- Kid-Friendly: The bright colors and mild flavors are appealing to kids, making it a great way to get them to eat more vegetables.
Ingredients
- 400-500 grams spaghetti
- 1½ cups cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cucumber, diced
- 2 zucchinis, diced
- 1 green bell pepper, diced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 red onion, diced
- 1 can sliced black olives, drained
For the Dressing:
- 1 bottle Italian dressing
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon celery seeds
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
Kitchen Equipment Needed
- Large pot
- Colander
- Large mixing bowl
- Whisk
- Small mixing bowl
- Plastic wrap
How to Make California Spaghetti Salad
- Cook the Pasta:
- Cook the spaghetti according to the package instructions. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool. Set aside.
- Prepare the Vegetables:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cherry tomatoes, cucumber, zucchini, green and red bell peppers, red onion, and black olives.
- Make the Dressing:
- In a separate small mixing bowl, whisk together the Italian dressing, grated Parmesan cheese, sesame seeds, paprika, celery seeds, and garlic powder.
- Combine and Toss:
- Add the cooled spaghetti to the bowl of vegetables. Pour the dressing over the pasta and vegetables, then toss everything together until well coated.
- Chill:
- Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 3 hours to allow the flavors to meld together.
- Serve:
- Give the salad a good toss before serving. Enjoy as a refreshing side dish or a light main course!
Storage
Store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This salad can be made ahead of time and kept in the fridge, making it a convenient option for meal prep or gatherings.
FAQ
Can I use a different type of pasta? Yes, you can use any pasta shape you prefer. Rotini, penne, or bow tie pasta would work well.
Is there a substitute for Italian dressing? If you don’t have Italian dressing, you can use a homemade vinaigrette or any tangy dressing of your choice.
Can I add protein to this salad? Absolutely! Grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas would be great additions for extra protein.
Conclusion
California Spaghetti Salad is a versatile and delicious dish that brings together the freshness of vegetables and the tanginess of Italian dressing. It’s perfect for any occasion, from casual family dinners to potluck gatherings. Easy to make and full of flavor, this salad is sure to become a favorite. Serve it chilled and enjoy the delightful crunch and zest in every bite!
