This colorful California spaghetti salad is fun and fresh! It’s packed with veggies like bell peppers, cherry tomatoes, and olives, all tossed in a tasty dressing.
Add some crunch with nuts or cheese, and voilà! It’s perfect for picnics or a quick lunch. I love how it gets better as it sits, making leftovers a treat!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Spaghetti: Traditional spaghetti works perfectly, but you can swap it for whole wheat or gluten-free pasta if you prefer. I’ve tried it with rotini, too, which holds onto the dressing well!
Cherry Tomatoes: These add sweetness, but if they aren’t in season, you can use diced regular tomatoes instead. I love using grape tomatoes for a burst of flavor.
Cucumbers: For a crunch factor, you can use English cucumbers or even substitute with bell peppers to mix up the flavor!
Black Olives: If you aren’t a fan, feel free to omit them or replace them with green olives. I sometimes use feta cheese for a different twist!
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan is fantastic, but you can use Pecorino Romano for a sharper taste. A dairy-free cheese can substitute if needed.
How Do You Make Sure Your Salad is Well-Seasoned?
Getting the right balance of flavors is key. Here’s how to do it:
- Start with the dressing. Whisk the olive oil, vinegar, and seasonings together thoroughly. Tasting as you go can help you adjust the salt and pepper to your liking.
- Ensure the pasta is well-drained to avoid a watery salad. Rinsing it in cold water helps cool it down and stop the cooking process.
- Mix everything together while the pasta is slightly warm so it absorbs the dressing better. After mixing, let it chill; this helps the flavors blend and the dish to be more refreshing!
These tips will help your California spaghetti salad shine with flavor!
Easy California Spaghetti Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 8 ounces spaghetti
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup sliced cucumbers (about 1 medium cucumber)
- 1/2 cup sliced black olives
- 1/4 cup chopped red onion
- 1/2 cup diced red bell pepper
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (plus extra for garnish)
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 3 tablespoons red wine vinegar
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning (or a mix of oregano, basil, and thyme)
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful salad takes about 15 minutes to prepare and another 30 minutes to chill. So in total, you’re looking at about 45 minutes before you can dig in! Perfect for a quick and refreshing lunch or side dish.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Spaghetti:
Start by cooking the spaghetti according to the package instructions until it’s al dente (that means tender but still firm when you bite into it). Once done, drain it in a colander and then rinse it under cold water to stop the cooking. This will help cool it down quickly. Drain well and transfer the spaghetti to a large mixing bowl.
2. Add Fresh Ingredients:
Next, toss in the halved cherry tomatoes, sliced cucumbers, sliced black olives, chopped red onion, and diced red bell pepper into the bowl with the cooled spaghetti. This colorful mix is what makes this salad super appealing!
3. Prepare the Dressing:
In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, dried Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. This dressing brings all the flavors together, so whisk until it’s nice and smooth.
4. Combine Everything:
Pour the dressing over the spaghetti and veggie mixture. Toss gently to coat all the ingredients evenly with the dressing—this will make each bite tasty!
5. Add Parmesan:
Now, sprinkle in the grated Parmesan cheese and give it another gentle toss. You want everything to be coated in that cheesy goodness. Yum!
6. Chill and Serve:
Cover the bowl and refrigerate your spaghetti salad for at least 30 minutes. This chilling time helps all the flavors meld beautifully. When you’re ready to serve, you can enjoy it cold or at room temperature.
7. Garnish and Enjoy:
If you want, sprinkle some additional Parmesan cheese on top just before serving for extra flair. Enjoy this light and refreshing California spaghetti salad as a perfect side dish or a tasty meal on a warm day!
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 works great if you have dietary restrictions. Just follow the cooking instructions on the package for best results.
How Long Will Leftovers Last?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just give it a little stir before serving again, and you may need to add a splash of olive oil or extra dressing to refresh the flavors!
Can I Make This Salad Ahead of Time?
Yes! This salad actually benefits from chilling, so feel free to prepare it a day in advance. Just be sure to hold off on adding the cheese until you’re ready to serve for the best texture.
What Other Veggies Can I Add?
You can get creative! Try adding shredded carrots, diced bell peppers of different colors, or even corn for a pop of sweetness. The more colorful, the better!
