California Spaghetti Salad

Here’s a refreshing and colorful recipe for California Spaghetti Salad! This salad is packed with fresh vegetables, pasta, and a tangy dressing, making it a perfect side dish for barbecues, picnics, or potlucks.

California Spaghetti Salad Recipe

Ingredients

• For the Salad:

  • 8 ounces spaghetti (or any pasta of your choice)
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1 cup cucumber, diced
  • 1 bell pepper (red, yellow, or green), diced
  • 1/2 cup red onion, finely chopped
  • 1 cup broccoli florets (lightly steamed or raw)
  • 1/2 cup black olives, sliced
  • 1/2 cup shredded carrots
  • 1/2 cup feta cheese or mozzarella cheese (optional)
  • Fresh parsley or basil for garnish (optional)

• For the Dressing:

  • 1/3 cup olive oil
  • 1/4 cup red wine vinegar (or apple cider vinegar)
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup (optional)
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta:

   • Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool. Set aside.

2. Prepare the Vegetables:

   • While the pasta is cooking, chop and prepare all the vegetables as listed in the ingredients.

3. Make the Dressing:

   • In a small bowl or jar, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, honey (if using), minced garlic, salt, and pepper until well combined. Adjust seasoning to taste.

4. Combine the Salad:

   • In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked spaghetti, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, bell pepper, red onion, broccoli, black olives, shredded carrots, and cheese (if using).

5. Add the Dressing:

   • Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine, ensuring all the ingredients are well coated.

6. Chill and Serve:

   • Cover the salad and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. Before serving, give it a good toss and garnish with fresh parsley or basil if desired.

Tips:

• Make Ahead: This salad can be made a few hours in advance or even the day before. Just keep it covered in the refrigerator.
• Customization: Feel free to add other ingredients like avocado, artichoke hearts, or protein (such as grilled chicken or chickpeas) to make it more filling.
• Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Enjoy your California Spaghetti Salad! It’s a vibrant and tasty dish that’s sure to be a hit at any gathering!