This Easy California Spaghetti Salad is a colorful mix of cooked spaghetti, fresh veggies, and tasty dressing. It’s perfect for picnics or as a side dish any day!
You can toss in your favorite ingredients like olives or cheese. I love making this salad ahead of time; it tastes even better after chilling in the fridge! Yum! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Spaghetti: Regular spaghetti works well, but you could use whole wheat or gluten-free pasta if needed. Just ensure it’s cooked al dente for the best texture in the salad.
Cherry Tomatoes: If cherry tomatoes aren’t available, you can substitute diced regular tomatoes. To maintain sweetness, choose ripe ones!
Cucumber: Any crunchy cucumber is good, but if you’re looking for a twist, try using bell peppers or zucchini instead.
Olives: Black olives add a nice salty flavor, but green olives can also work well for a different taste. If olives aren’t your thing, consider adding artichoke hearts.
Parmesan Cheese: For a dairy-free option, you could omit the cheese or use nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor without the dairy.
How Do You Avoid a Soggy Pasta Salad?
One important tip for this pasta salad is to prevent it from becoming soggy. Here’s how:
- Make sure to rinse the spaghetti under cold water after draining. This stops the cooking process and helps cool it down.
- Don’t add the dressing until you’re ready to serve, so the pasta doesn’t soak it up too early.
- Chill the salad after mixing, but not for too long, as the vegetables can lose their crunch.
Following these steps keeps the texture of your salad fresh and delightful!
Easy California Spaghetti Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 8 oz spaghetti
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup cucumber, chopped
- 1 cup red bell pepper, chopped
- 1/2 cup black olives, sliced
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tbsp red wine vinegar
- 1 tsp dried Italian herbs (or oregano/basil mix)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Easy California Spaghetti Salad takes about 15 minutes to prepare and needs to chill for at least 30 minutes in the refrigerator. So, you can whip it up in no time and let it sit while you finish other preparations. Perfect for parties or quick meals!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Spaghetti:
Start by cooking the spaghetti according to the package instructions until it is al dente (firm to the bite). Once cooked, drain it in a colander and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process and cool it down. Set it aside.
2. Combine the Veggies:
In a large mixing bowl, add the cooked spaghetti, halved cherry tomatoes, chopped cucumber, red bell pepper, sliced black olives, and finely chopped red onion. This salad is all about fresh, vibrant vegetables!
3. Make the Dressing:
In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, dried Italian herbs, salt, and freshly ground black pepper. This will be the flavorful dressing that brings everything together!
4. Toss It All Together:
Drizzle the dressing over the salad mixture and toss everything gently to make sure all the spaghetti and veggies are coated evenly. It’s okay to mix it up a bit!
5. Add the Cheese:
Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese on top of your mixed salad. Gently fold it into the salad so it blends well without clumping.
6. Chill Before Serving:
Cover the salad and place it in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This chilling time allows the flavors to meld beautifully for a deliciously refreshing taste.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
When you’re ready to serve, take the salad out of the refrigerator. You can serve it cold or at room temperature. Feel free to garnish with extra herbs or cheese if desired!
This refreshing and colorful spaghetti salad is perfect for a quick lunch, potluck, or a side dish at your next barbecue! Enjoy every bite! 🍝🥗
FAQ for Easy California Spaghetti Salad
Can I Use Whole Wheat or Gluten-Free Pasta?
Absolutely! Whole wheat pasta adds more fiber, and gluten-free pasta is a great substitute for those with dietary restrictions. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time according to the package instructions.
What Other Vegetables Can I Add?
You can customize this salad to your liking! Consider adding veggies like carrots, spinach, or even artichoke hearts for extra flavor and nutrition. Just chop them into small pieces for even distribution.
How Long Will Leftovers Last?
Leftover spaghetti salad can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. If it starts to look dry, you can add a splash more of olive oil or vinegar to refresh it.
Can I Make This Salad Ahead of Time?
Yes, this salad is perfect for making ahead! It can be prepared a day in advance, and chilling it allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Just give it a good toss before serving!
