This refreshing California Spaghetti Salad is a colorful mix of pasta, fresh veggies, and zesty dressing. It’s perfect for picnics and brings a smile to any table!
I love how the crunchy veggies and tasty dressing make this salad festive. Plus, it’s easy to whip up, so I can spend more time enjoying my friends and less time cooking! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Spaghetti: The base of this salad! I recommend using regular spaghetti, but you can also try whole wheat or gluten-free pasta for a healthier twist. Just cook according to the package instructions for the best texture.
Cherry Tomatoes: Fresh and juicy, these add great flavor. If cherry tomatoes aren’t available, you can substitute with grape tomatoes or diced regular tomatoes depending on what you have.
Cucumber: This brings a nice crunch. If you’re out of cucumbers, use shredded carrots or even bell pepper for added color and texture.
Italian Dressing: While store-bought is quick, making your own dressing with olive oil, vinegar, oregano, and garlic can boost flavor. If you’re looking for a healthier option, a light vinaigrette works well, too.
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan adds a lovely nutty flavor. If you’re vegan or lactose intolerant, nutritional yeast is a fantastic alternative for a cheesy vibe!
How Do I Keep My Spaghetti Salad from Being Soggy?
To keep your salad light and fresh without sogginess, rinse the spaghetti under cold water immediately after cooking. This stops the cooking process and helps cool them down. Here are some extra tips:
- Don’t skip the chilling step; it allows flavors to meld without making the pasta mushy.
- Consider adding the dressing just before serving to keep everything crisp.
- You can also add hearty vegetables that hold up well, like bell peppers and cucumbers!
How to Make Best California Spaghetti Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 8 ounces spaghetti
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cucumber, diced
- 1 bell pepper (any color), diced
- ½ cup black olives, sliced
- ¼ red onion, thinly sliced
- ½ cup Italian dressing (store-bought or homemade)
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: Fresh parsley or basil for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful salad takes about 15 minutes to prepare, plus an additional 30 minutes to chill in the refrigerator. So, plan for about 45 minutes from start to enjoying this fresh and tasty dish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Spaghetti:
Begin by cooking the spaghetti according to the package instructions. Cook it until it’s al dente, which means it should still have a slight bite to it. Once done, drain the spaghetti and rinse it under cold water. This will cool it off and stop the cooking process.
2. Prepare the Vegetables:
While the spaghetti is cooling, grab a large mixing bowl. In this bowl, combine the cherry tomatoes, diced cucumber, diced bell pepper, sliced black olives, and thinly sliced red onion. Mix them gently so they’re well combined.
3. Combine and Dress the Salad:
Now that your spaghetti is cool, add it to the bowl with the vegetables. Pour the Italian dressing over everything and toss well. You want to make sure all the ingredients are coated with the dressing nicely.
4. Add Cheese and Season:
Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese on top of the salad and give it a gentle mix to combine. Don’t forget to season with salt and pepper to taste—this is where you can adjust the flavors to your liking!
5. Chill and Garnish:
For the best flavor, cover the salad and let it chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This allows all the flavors to meld together perfectly. When ready to serve, you can garnish it with some fresh parsley or basil for an extra touch.
Enjoy your refreshing California spaghetti salad cold! It’s perfect for picnics or as a lovely side dish at any meal.
Can I Use Another Type of Pasta?
Absolutely! If you don’t have spaghetti on hand, you can substitute it with any pasta shape you like, such as fusilli, rotini, or penne. Just make sure to cook it according to the package instructions until al dente and rinse it under cold water to cool.
How Long Will This Salad Last in the Fridge?
This California Spaghetti Salad can last up to 3 days in the refrigerator if stored in an airtight container. Just remember that the vegetables might release some moisture, so it’s best enjoyed within the first couple of days for optimal crunchiness!
Can I Make This Salad Vegan?
How to Add Protein to This Salad?
If you’d like to add some protein, consider mixing in cooked chicken, tuna, or chickpeas. Simply add them when combining the other ingredients before chilling. This will make your salad more filling and nutritious!
