Here’s a detailed and unique article about California Spaghetti Salad, complete with step-by-step instructions for preparing it:
California Spaghetti Salad: A Refreshing Twist on Pasta Salad
When you think of a perfect summer side dish, California Spaghetti Salad should be at the top of the list. Bursting with fresh vegetables, tender spaghetti noodles, and a zesty Italian-style dressing, this dish is colorful, healthy, and incredibly flavorful. Unlike heavy cream-based salads, this one feels light and refreshing, making it a favorite at cookouts, potlucks, and family gatherings.
In this article, we’ll break down the recipe step by step so you can make your own California Spaghetti Salad at home with ease.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Before getting started, gather these simple but vibrant ingredients:
- Spaghetti pasta – 1 pound (uncooked)
- Cherry tomatoes – 1 pint, halved
- Cucumber – 1 large, diced
- Bell peppers – 1 red and 1 yellow, chopped
- Red onion – ½ medium, finely diced
- Black olives – 1 cup, sliced
- Parmesan cheese – ½ cup, grated
For the Dressing:
- Italian dressing – 1 ½ cups (store-bought or homemade)
- Parmesan cheese – ¼ cup, grated
- Paprika – ½ teaspoon
- Garlic powder – ½ teaspoon
- Italian seasoning – 1 teaspoon
- Sugar – 2 teaspoons (to balance acidity)
- Salt & black pepper – to taste
Step-by-Step Method
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Add the spaghetti and cook according to package directions until al dente (firm to the bite).
- Drain the pasta and rinse it under cold water to stop cooking and cool it down.
- Toss with a drizzle of olive oil to prevent sticking, then set aside.
Step 2: Chop the Vegetables
- Halve the cherry tomatoes.
- Dice the cucumber into bite-sized cubes.
- Chop the red and yellow bell peppers for a colorful crunch.
- Finely dice the red onion.
- Slice the black olives.
All these veggies add not only flavor but also a rainbow of colors to your salad.
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