This California Spaghetti Salad is a delightful and refreshing dish that’s perfect for a summer gathering, potluck, or as a light meal. With its colorful array of vegetables and a zesty dressing, it’s a crowd-pleaser that’s easy to prepare and bursting with flavor.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
This recipe is a wonderful combination of fresh, crisp vegetables, tender pasta, and a flavorful dressing. It’s a versatile dish that can be a standalone meal or a vibrant side to complement any main course. The salad is not only visually appealing but also a delicious and healthy option for any occasion.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound thin spaghetti, broken into 1-inch pieces
- 1 pint cherry tomatoes, chopped in half
- 2 medium zucchinis, diced
- 1 large cucumber, diced
- 1 medium green bell pepper, diced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 large red onion, diced
- 2 cans ripe olives (2-1/4 ounces each), sliced and drained
Dressing:
- 1 bottle Italian salad dressing (16 ounces)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon celery seed
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
Directions:
- Cook the pasta according to package directions. Drain using a colander and rinse in cold water.
- In a large bowl, combine the cooked spaghetti, cherry tomatoes, zucchinis, cucumber, green and red bell peppers, red onion, and sliced olives.
- To make the dressing, whisk together the Italian salad dressing, Parmesan cheese, sesame seeds, paprika, celery seed, and garlic powder.
- Pour the dressing over the salad and toss until all the ingredients are evenly coated.
- Cover the salad and refrigerate for 3 hours or overnight to allow the flavors to meld together.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cooking Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes (+ chilling time)
- Servings: 8-10
- Kcal: 280 per serving
Storage:
Store the California Spaghetti Salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It’s best enjoyed fresh but will keep well for a couple of days.
Recipe Tips:
Feel free to customize this salad with your favorite vegetables or add grilled chicken or shrimp for a heartier version. Adjust the seasoning and dressing according to your taste preferences. This salad is a great make-ahead dish for gatherings, as the flavors continue to develop over time.