This California Spaghetti Salad is a colorful mix of pasta, fresh veggies, and zesty dressing. It’s perfect for parties, picnics, or a tasty lunch!
The best part? You can make it ahead of time and let the flavors blend together. I love adding extra olives for a salty kick—yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Spaghetti: Standard spaghetti works great, but you can also try whole wheat spaghetti or gluten-free pasta if needed. I often use rotini for a fun twist!
Cherry Tomatoes: These add sweetness. If you’re out, try halved grape tomatoes or even diced regular tomatoes for similar taste.
Cucumber: I love using English cucumbers for their crisp texture. If you can only find regular ones, just remove the seeds to avoid excess water.
Black Olives: My favorite for this salad! If you prefer, green olives or even artichoke hearts can add a different flavor.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated always wins! If you’re dairy-free, try nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor or omit it completely.
How Do I Ensure My Pasta is Cooked Perfectly?
Cooking pasta can be tricky! Here’s how to get it just right:
- Use plenty of salted water to prevent sticking. Think about 1-2 tablespoons of salt for a large pot.
- Keep an eye on the clock. Follow the recommended time on the package, checking a minute or two before it’s done.
- Test by tasting! You want it al dente—cooked but still firm when you bite into it.
- Don’t forget to rinse it! This stops the cooking and helps cool it down for your salad.
Perfectly cooked pasta is key to a satisfying salad! Enjoy making it your own!
Best California Spaghetti Salad – Easy & Fresh
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 8 oz spaghetti pasta
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup cucumber, sliced or diced
- 1/2 cup black olives, sliced (plus extra for garnish if desired)
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely diced
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Dressing Ingredients:
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 3 tbsp apple cider vinegar or red wine vinegar
- 1 tsp dried Italian seasoning or oregano
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes of prep time and an additional 30 minutes for chilling in the fridge. In total, you’re looking at about 45 minutes to enjoy this delicious salad!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Spaghetti:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti pasta and cook according to the package instructions until it’s al dente—this means it will still have a slight bite to it. Once it’s cooked, drain it in a colander and rinse under cold water to cool it down and stop the cooking process. Be sure to drain well!
2. Prepare the Salad Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled spaghetti, halved cherry tomatoes, sliced cucumber, sliced black olives, and finely diced red onion. Mix them gently until evenly distributed.
3. Make the Dressing:
In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, vinegar, dried Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Make sure everything is well combined to create a tasty dressing!
4. Combine Dressing with Salad:
Pour the dressing over the pasta and veggies. Toss everything gently to ensure all ingredients are well coated in the dressing.
5. Add the Finishing Touch:
Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the top of the salad and toss lightly again to combine.
6. Chill and Serve:
Cover the bowl and refrigerate the salad for at least 30 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully. When ready to serve, you can enjoy it chilled or at room temperature.
7. Final Garnish (Optional):
Just before serving, feel free to garnish with extra black olives or a sprinkle of fresh herbs like basil or parsley for an extra pop of flavor!
This vibrant and fresh California Spaghetti Salad combines chewy pasta with crunchy cucumbers, juicy tomatoes, and salty olives, all balanced perfectly with the tangy herb dressing and Parmesan cheese. Perfect for light meals, potlucks, or summer gatherings! Enjoy!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use a Different Type of Pasta?
Absolutely! While spaghetti is traditional, you can use any pasta shape you prefer, like rotini, penne, or even whole wheat or gluten-free pasta. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time according to the type of pasta you choose.
How Can I Store Leftover Salad?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors will continue to meld, making it even tastier! Just give it a good stir before serving again.
Can I Make This Salad Vegan?
Yes! To make this salad vegan, simply omit the Parmesan cheese or replace it with a dairy-free cheese alternative. Nutritional yeast is also a great option for a cheesy flavor without dairy.
Is This Salad Suitable for Meal Prep?
Definitely! This salad is perfect for meal prep. Just prepare the salad and dressing separately and combine before serving. It can last up to 3 days in the fridge, making it a convenient option for quick lunches or dinners!
