California Spaghetti Salad Recipe
Introduction
California Spaghetti Salad is a delightful pasta dish bursting with fresh vegetables and coated in a tangy Italian dressing. This colorful and flavorful salad is sure to steal the spotlight at any gathering or meal.
Ingredients
- 400-500 grams of spaghetti
- 1½ cup of cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cucumber, diced
- 2 zucchinis, cubed
- 1 green pepper, diced
- 1 red pepper, diced
- 1 red onion, diced
- 1 can of sliced black olives, drained
For the Dressing:
- 1 bottle of Italian dressing
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- ¼ teaspoon celery seeds
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
How To Make California Spaghetti Salad
- Cook the spaghetti according to package instructions. Drain and rinse with cold water.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the diced vegetables: zucchinis, cherry tomatoes, green and red peppers, red onions, cucumbers, and black olives.
- In another mixing bowl, whisk together the Italian dressing, sesame seeds, grated Parmesan cheese, paprika, celery seeds, and garlic powder to make the dressing.
- Toss the cooked pasta with the chopped vegetables and olives.
- Pour the dressing over the pasta and vegetables, tossing until everything is well coated.
- Cover the salad with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 3 hours before serving.
Tips:
- To add extra flavor, grill the vegetables before adding them to the salad.
- Substitute whole wheat or gluten-free pasta for a healthier alternative.
- Customize the salad by adding your favorite vegetables or protein, such as grilled chicken or shrimp.
FAQs
Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes, California Spaghetti Salad can be made a day in advance. Just keep it refrigerated until ready to serve.
Can I use a different type of dressing?
Feel free to use any dressing of your choice, but the Italian dressing adds a classic flavor to this salad.
Can I omit any vegetables?
You can customize this salad by omitting any vegetables you don’t like or substituting them with others that you prefer.
How long will this salad last in the refrigerator?
This salad will stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days when stored in an airtight container.
Conclusion
California Spaghetti Salad is a versatile and delicious dish that is perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re serving it at a barbecue, potluck, or weeknight dinner, it’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Try making this vibrant and flavorful salad today!
