This colorful California Spaghetti Salad is a party on a plate! With crunchy veggies, tasty olives, and a zesty dressing, it’s a perfect side dish or light meal.
Honestly, who can resist a salad that’s so fun? I love how quick it is to whip up. I often make this for picnics, and it never fails to impress my friends. 🍝😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Spaghetti: Standard spaghetti works great here, but you can swap it for whole wheat or gluten-free pasta if that’s your preference. I often use rotini for a twist, as it’s fun and holds onto the dressing well!
Cherry Tomatoes: They add a sweet burst of flavor. If you can’t find them, try using grape tomatoes or even diced regular tomatoes. Always season them with a little salt beforehand to enhance their taste.
Cucumber: Fresh cucumbers provide crunch. For a twist, you can use zucchini or even bell pepper slices instead. Just remove the seeds to keep things from getting soggy!
Olives: Black olives give a nice briny flavor. If those aren’t your favorite, green olives or even capers can work well here too. I personally love Kalamata olives for that extra punch!
Italian Dressing: You can use homemade dressing for a fresh touch. Olive oil, vinegar, and Italian herbs blended together make a great substitute. If you’re avoiding oil, try a vinegar-based dressing.
How Do I Make Sure My Spaghetti Is Perfectly Cooked?
Cooking spaghetti just right is key for a great salad! Here’s how to do it:
- Bring water to a boil and generously salt it—this is your chance to flavor the pasta!
- Cook according to package instructions until it’s only slightly firm, known as al dente.
- Drain the spaghetti but remember to rinse it under cold water to stop the cooking process. This makes sure it stays nice and firm in your salad!
Following these steps helps the pasta maintain its texture and flavor, making it a delicious base for your salad. Enjoy your cooking!
How to Make the Best California Spaghetti Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 8 ounces spaghetti
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup cucumber, sliced
- 1 cup black olives, sliced
- 1/2 cup red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup green bell pepper, diced
- 1/2 cup shredded carrots
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/2 cup Italian dressing
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious salad will take about 15 minutes to prepare and a little bit of time to chill in the fridge—at least 30 minutes. So, in total, you’ll need around 45 minutes to enjoy this tasty pasta dish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Spaghetti:
Start by boiling a pot of water and adding the spaghetti. Cook according to the package instructions until it’s al dente (cooked but still firm to the bite). Once done, drain the spaghetti and rinse it under cold water. This helps cool it down and stops the cooking process. Set it aside.
2. Mix in the Veggies:
In a large mixing bowl, add the cooled spaghetti along with the cherry tomatoes, cucumber, black olives, red onion, green bell pepper, shredded carrots, and freshly chopped parsley. Give it a gentle mix to make sure the ingredients are nicely distributed.
3. Dress It Up:
Now it’s time to pour the Italian dressing over the pasta and veggies. Mix everything together well to make sure each piece is coated in dressing. This is where the flavors start to come together!
4. Add Cheese and Season:
Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese on top and season with salt and pepper to taste. Toss again, so everything is well blended and deliciously cheesy!
5. Chill and Serve:
Cover the salad and put it in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This chilling time lets the flavors meld beautifully. When you’re ready to serve, dish it out chilled and enjoy your vibrant California spaghetti salad!
Can I Use Different Types of Pasta for This Salad?
Absolutely! While spaghetti is a classic choice, you can use any pasta shape you prefer, such as fusilli, penne, or bowtie. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time according to the package instructions for your chosen pasta.
What Other Vegetables Can I Add?
You can get creative with the veggies! Some great additions include bell pepper of different colors, zucchini, or even radishes for a bit of crunch. Just chop them up and add them to the mix!
How Long Can I Store Leftover Spaghetti Salad?
Leftover spaghetti salad can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just give it a good stir before serving, and feel free to add a splash more of dressing if it seems a little dry.
Can I Make This Salad Vegan?
Yes, you can easily make this salad vegan by omitting the Parmesan cheese or substituting it with a nutritional yeast topping or a vegan cheese alternative. Also, ensure your Italian dressing is free from animal products.
