California Spaghetti Salad Recipe: A Refreshing and Flavorful Dish
Brighten up your table with this California Spaghetti Salad Recipe—a vibrant and zesty dish packed with fresh vegetables and a tangy dressing. Perfect for summer gatherings, potlucks, or as a light meal, this salad is a crowd-pleaser that’s easy to prepare and bursting with flavor.
Ingredients for California Spaghetti Salad
This recipe serves 10-12 people, making it great for sharing.
For the Salad:
- 1 lb (454 g) thin spaghetti, broken into 1-inch pieces
- 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
- 2 medium zucchinis, diced
- 1 large cucumber, diced
- 1 medium green bell pepper, diced
- 1 medium red bell pepper, diced
- 1 large red onion, diced
- 2 cans (2.25 oz each) sliced black olives, drained (optional)
For the Dressing:
- 1 bottle (16 oz) Italian dressing
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon celery seeds
- ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Cook the Spaghetti
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Add the broken spaghetti and cook according to package instructions until al dente.
- Drain the spaghetti and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process.
- Transfer the cooled spaghetti to a large serving bowl.
2. Prepare the Vegetables
- While the spaghetti cooks, dice the zucchini, cucumber, bell peppers, and red onion.
- Halve the cherry tomatoes and drain the black olives (if using).
3. Combine the Salad Ingredients
- Add the prepared vegetables to the bowl with the cooled spaghetti.
- Toss gently to combine, ensuring the vegetables are evenly distributed.
4. Make the Dressing
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the Italian dressing, grated Parmesan cheese, sesame seeds, paprika, celery seeds, and garlic powder until well combined.
5. Dress the Salad
- Pour the dressing over the spaghetti and vegetable mixture.
- Toss thoroughly to coat all the ingredients evenly.
6. Chill and Serve
- Cover the salad and refrigerate for at least 3 hours, or overnight, to allow the flavors to meld.
- Serve cold, garnished with extra Parmesan cheese or fresh herbs if desired.
Why You’ll Love This California Spaghetti Salad
- Vibrant and Colorful: Packed with fresh vegetables, it’s as visually appealing as it is delicious.
- Easy to Make: Minimal prep and no complicated techniques make this salad a breeze to prepare.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: Perfect for entertaining, as it tastes even better after a few hours in the fridge.
- Customizable: Swap in your favorite vegetables or use gluten-free pasta for a tailored dish.
Tips for Perfect Spaghetti Salad
1. Rinse the Spaghetti
Rinse the cooked spaghetti under cold water to prevent it from sticking together and to cool it down quickly.
2. Let It Marinate
Allow the salad to chill for at least a few hours to let the flavors develop fully.
3. Use Fresh Vegetables
Fresh, crunchy vegetables add the best texture and flavor to this salad.
4. Adjust the Dressing
Feel free to adjust the amount of dressing based on your preference—add more for extra flavor!
Variations and Serving Ideas
Add Protein
- Include diced grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas to make it a heartier meal.
Try Different Cheeses
- Swap Parmesan for feta or mozzarella for a creamy twist.
Herb Boost
- Add chopped fresh basil, parsley, or cilantro for an extra layer of freshness.
Serve With
- Pair this salad with grilled meats, sandwiches, or as a side dish at a barbecue.
FAQs About California Spaghetti Salad
1. Can I Make This Salad Ahead of Time?
Yes! In fact, it’s best to make this salad a day ahead to allow the flavors to meld.
2. How Long Does It Last in the Fridge?
This salad can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
3. Can I Use Other Pasta Shapes?
Absolutely! Bowtie, rotini, or penne work just as well if you prefer a different pasta shape.
A Vibrant and Flavorful Salad for Any Occasion
This California Spaghetti Salad is a perfect combination of fresh vegetables, tender pasta, and zesty dressing, making it a standout dish for potlucks, barbecues, or casual family dinners. Simple to prepare and endlessly customizable, this salad is sure to become a favorite.
Explore more tried-and-tested recipes HERE!
Try it today and enjoy a taste of California sunshine!
