California Spaghetti Salad

California Spaghetti Salad: A Fresh Twist on Pasta

Dive into the vibrant colors and refreshing taste of California Spaghetti Salad, a delightful dish that brings the sunshine of the West Coast right to your table. This recipe combines the lightness of pasta with crisp vegetables and a tangy Italian dressing.

Creating a perfect side dish for your next barbecue or a wholesome meal on its own. Ideal for those who love a meal that’s as visually appealing as it is delicious, this spaghetti salad is sure to impress with its array of colors and flavors.

Bright, Bold, and Brimming with Flavor

California Spaghetti Salad is not just about great tastes; it’s about enjoying the fresh, crisp textures of bell peppers, cucumbers, and cherry tomatoes, all tossed with perfectly cooked spaghetti. It’s a feast for the eyes and a delight for the palate, making it a favorite for gatherings and family dinners alike.

Pro Tips for Perfect Spaghetti Salad

1. Pasta Perfection: Cook the spaghetti just to al dente to maintain a good texture in the salad.
2. Chill Factor: Allow the salad to chill thoroughly before serving to enhance the flavors.
3. Dressing Dynamics: Add the dressing to the pasta while it’s still slightly warm to help absorb the flavors better.
4. Fresh Finish: Garnish with fresh basil just before serving to keep the herbs vibrant and aromatic.

California Spaghetti Salad Recipe:

• Preparation time: 15 minutes
• Cooking time: 10 minutes
• Serving: Serves 6
• Equipment: Large pot, mixing bowls

This salad offers a refreshing twist on traditional pasta dishes, light yet satisfying with a flavorful dressing that complements the crisp vegetables perfectly.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound spaghetti, broken into 1-inch pieces
• 1 cucumber, seeded and diced
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 1 yellow bell pepper, diced
• 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1/2 red onion, finely chopped
• 1/4 cup black olives, sliced
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 cup Italian dressing
• 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh basil, chopped (for garnish)

Directions:

1. Prepare the Pasta: Cook the spaghetti in salted water according to package instructions until al dente. Rinse under cold water and drain.
2. Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, mix the cooled spaghetti with cucumber, bell peppers, cherry tomatoes, red onion, and black olives.
3. Mix the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the Italian dressing, red wine vinegar, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning.
4. Dress the Salad: Pour the dressing over the spaghetti mixture and toss to coat thoroughly. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese.
5. Season: Adjust salt and pepper to your taste.
6. Chill: Refrigerate the salad for at least 1 hour to meld the flavors.
7. Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle fresh basil over the salad just before serving.

Simple, Fresh, and Fabulous

California Spaghetti Salad is your go-to choice for a dish that’s as easy to make as it is enjoyable. Perfect for any occasion, it offers a fresh take on pasta salad that everyone is sure to love.

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