This Easy California Spaghetti Salad is a colorful dish packed with fresh veggies and a tasty dressing! It’s a fun mix of spaghetti, bell peppers, olives, and a zingy Italian flavor throughout.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Spaghetti: This recipe calls for regular spaghetti. However, if you’re looking for something gluten-free, try using brown rice spaghetti or quinoa pasta. Both hold up well in salads!
Cherry Tomatoes: If cherry tomatoes aren’t available, grape tomatoes work too! Plus, you can use larger tomatoes; just chop them into bite-sized pieces. Freshness is key here!
Cucumber: I love using English cucumbers since they have fewer seeds and a crisp texture. You can swap it with bell peppers for extra crunch and flavor if you prefer.
Black Olives: Not a fan of black olives? Green olives can be a fun substitute for a different taste, or you can leave them out altogether if you’re not into olives!
Italian Dressing: If you want to control the ingredients, homemade dressing is easy to whip up! Just mix olive oil, vinegar, Italian herbs, and a pinch of salt.
How Do You Get the Best Flavor in Your Spaghetti Salad?
The trick to great flavor in this salad lies in proper cooling and chilling. After cooking your spaghetti, run it under cold water; this stops cooking and keeps it firm. This also helps it absorb the dressing better!
- Once combined, let the salad chill for at least 30 minutes. This allows all the veggies and pasta to soak up the dressing’s flavors and makes every bite delightful.
- Always taste before serving! Adjust the salt or pepper if needed. Sometimes a pinch can make all the difference!
Easy California Spaghetti Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 8 oz spaghetti pasta
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup cucumber, sliced or diced
- 1/2 cup black olives, sliced
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup shredded Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup Italian dressing (store-bought or homemade)
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious spaghetti salad will take about 15 minutes to prepare, plus at least 30 minutes to chill in the refrigerator. That gives the flavors time to mingle and become even tastier!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Spaghetti:
Start by cooking the spaghetti according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. This means it should be tender but still have a little bite. Once cooked, drain the pasta and rinse it under cold water to cool it down. This step is super important as it stops the cooking process!
2. Mix in the Veggies:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled spaghetti with the halved cherry tomatoes, sliced cucumber, black olives, and finely chopped red onion. Give it a gentle stir to mix everything up!
3. Add the Dressing:
Pour the Italian dressing over the spaghetti and vegetables. Use a large spoon to toss everything together so that the dressing coats all the ingredients evenly. This is where the magic happens, bringing flavors together!
4. Seasonal Touch:
Now, sprinkle in the shredded Parmesan cheese and add salt and pepper to taste. Toss gently again, mixing in the cheese without breaking up the pasta.
5. Chill and Serve:
Cover the salad and chill it in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This helps all those wonderful flavors meld together beautifully. When you’re ready to serve, you can enjoy it cold or at room temperature, adding a few extra Parmesan shavings if you like.
Enjoy your fresh and colorful Easy California Spaghetti Salad! It’s an excellent side dish or a light meal on its own!
FAQ for Easy California Spaghetti Salad
Can I Use Whole Wheat or Gluten-Free Pasta?
Absolutely! Whole wheat spaghetti adds extra fiber and nutrition. If you need a gluten-free option, try brown rice spaghetti or quinoa pasta; both are great alternatives that work well in this salad!
How Long Does This Salad Last in the Fridge?
Your Easy California Spaghetti Salad can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days in an airtight container. However, for the best texture and flavor, it’s best enjoyed within 1-2 days.
Can I Add More Ingredients?
Definitely! Feel free to customize this salad. You can add bell peppers, carrots, or even diced avocado for extra creaminess. Fresh herbs like basil or parsley also make great additions for flavor!
How Can I Make It Vegan or Dairy-Free?
To make this salad vegan, simply omit the Parmesan cheese or substitute it with a vegan cheese alternative. You can also make a homemade dressing using olive oil, vinegar, and your favorite herbs to keep it dairy-free!
