This Easy California Spaghetti Salad is a colorful dish loaded with fresh veggies, tasty olives, and flavorful dressing. It’s perfect for picnics and potlucks!
Honestly, the crunch from the veggies makes this salad so fun to eat. I love making a big bowl and watching it disappear at gatherings. Who can resist spaghetti salad? 🎉
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Spaghetti Pasta: Traditional spaghetti adds a nice texture. If you’re looking for something healthier, try whole wheat or gluten-free pasta. They work well, too, and keep the salad light and easy.
Cherry Tomatoes: Sweet and juicy, they’re a must in this salad. If out of season, you can use regular tomatoes, just chop them smaller. Sun-dried tomatoes can also add a different twist!
Cucumber: This vegetable brings a great crunch. If you’re not a fan, you can swap it with bell peppers or zucchini for that refreshing bite.
Red Bell Pepper: It adds sweetness and color. You could substitute it with yellow or orange bell peppers for a similar taste. If you want a bit of heat, try adding some diced jalapeños.
Black Olives: These give a salty flavor. If you’re not a fan, use green olives or capers, which can bring a different but tasty zing to the dish.
How Do I Make Sure My Spaghetti is Perfectly Cooked?
Getting spaghetti just right is important for a good salad. Here are some tips to cook it perfectly:
- Use plenty of water: A large pot helps prevent the pasta from sticking.
- Salt the water: Once it’s boiling, add a good amount of salt. It seasons the pasta as it cooks.
- Follow package timing: Cook it until al dente – firm to the bite. This keeps it from getting mushy when tossed with the salad’s dressing and veggies.
- Cool it down: After draining, rinse the pasta under cold water to stop the cooking. This helps maintain the right texture.
With these steps, your spaghetti will have the perfect bite, giving your salad a great base! Enjoy your cooking!
Easy California Spaghetti Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 8 oz spaghetti pasta
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 medium cucumber, chopped
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1/2 small red onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup black olives, sliced
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning (or a mix of oregano and basil)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This colorful salad takes about 15 minutes to prepare. Cooking the spaghetti takes around 8-10 minutes, and then you just need some time for mixing and chilling, if desired. It’s a quick and easy meal option perfect for a lunch or gathering!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Spaghetti:
Start by boiling a large pot of salted water. Once it’s boiling, add the spaghetti. Cook according to the package instructions until al dente, which usually takes about 8-10 minutes. Once cooked, drain the pasta and rinse it under cold water to stop the cooking process. Let it drain thoroughly.
2. Mix the Veggies:
In a large mixing bowl, add the cooled spaghetti along with the halved cherry tomatoes, chopped cucumber, diced red bell pepper, finely chopped red onion, and sliced black olives. This is where the fun colors start to come in!
3. Prepare the Dressing:
In a small bowl, whisk together the extra virgin olive oil, red wine vinegar, dried Italian seasoning, and a sprinkle of salt and freshly ground black pepper. This dressing will bring all those fresh veggies and pasta together beautifully.
4. Combine Everything:
Pour the dressing over the spaghetti and veggies in the mixing bowl. Toss everything together gently so that all the ingredients get nicely coated in the dressing.
5. Add the Finishing Touch:
Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the top of the salad and give it a gentle toss again just before serving for an extra creamy touch.
6. Serve or Chill:
You can serve the salad immediately for a fresh and light meal. If you’d like, refrigerate it for about 30 minutes to let the flavors meld together even more. Enjoy your vibrant and delicious California Spaghetti Salad!
FAQ for Easy California Spaghetti Salad
Can I Use Whole Wheat or Gluten-Free Pasta?
Absolutely! Whole wheat pasta adds more fiber to the dish, while gluten-free pasta is a great alternative for those with dietary restrictions. Just follow the cooking instructions on the package for the best results.
Can I Make This Salad Ahead of Time?
Yes! This salad is perfect for making ahead. You can prepare it up to a day in advance and keep it covered in the refrigerator. Just give it a good toss before serving to refresh the flavors.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The salad is best enjoyed within 3 days. If it looks a bit dry after sitting, you can add a splash of olive oil or vinegar to freshen it up.
What Other Vegetables Can I Add?
Feel free to get creative! You can add vegetables like shredded carrots, snap peas, or even roasted red peppers. Just make sure to keep your veggie sizes similar for even mixing!