California Spaghetti is a delightful dish that often features fresh vegetables, herbs, and a light sauce, making it a perfect choice for a healthy and flavorful meal. Here’s a simple recipe to make your own California Spaghetti at home!
California Spaghetti Recipe
Ingredients
- 12 ounces spaghetti (or your favorite pasta)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 1 bell pepper (red, yellow, or green), chopped
- 1 zucchini, sliced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup broccoli florets
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
- Fresh basil or parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
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Cook the Pasta:
- In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving about 1/2 cup of the pasta water.
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Sauté the Vegetables:
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until translucent.
- Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
- Stir in the bell pepper, zucchini, and broccoli. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes until the vegetables are tender but still crisp.
- Add the cherry tomatoes, oregano, basil, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Cook for another 2-3 minutes until the tomatoes are slightly softened.
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Combine Pasta and Vegetables:
- Add the cooked spaghetti to the skillet with the sautéed vegetables. Toss to combine, adding reserved pasta water a little at a time to help create a light sauce and to coat the pasta.
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Serve:
- Remove from heat and stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, if using. Adjust seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh basil or parsley if desired.
Tips:
- Protein Addition: You can add cooked chicken, shrimp, or tofu for extra protein.
- Vegetable Variations: Feel free to customize the vegetables based on what you have on hand or your preferences. Other great options include asparagus, spinach, or carrots.
- Make it Vegan: Omit the Parmesan cheese or use a vegan cheese alternative to make this dish vegan.
Enjoy your California Spaghetti! It’s a fresh and vibrant dish that’s perfect for any occasion!