California Spaghetti Salad
This California Spaghetti Salad is a vibrant, veggie-packed pasta dish tossed in a tangy Italian dressing. It’s perfect for potlucks, BBQs, or as a refreshing side dish any time of year!
Ingredients
- 1 lb spaghetti, cooked and cooled
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup zucchini, diced
- 1 cup cucumber, diced
- 1/2 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup green bell pepper, diced
- 1/2 cup black olives, sliced
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
For the Dressing:
- 1 cup Italian dressing (store-bought or homemade)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
Instructions
- Cook the Spaghetti:
- Cook the spaghetti according to the package instructions. Drain and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process.
- Prepare the Veggies:
- While the pasta cools, chop the cherry tomatoes, zucchini, cucumber, red onion, green bell pepper, and black olives.
- Make the Dressing:
- In a small bowl, whisk together the Italian dressing, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, oregano, and black pepper.
- Combine Ingredients:
- In a large mixing bowl, toss the cooled spaghetti with the chopped vegetables and Parmesan cheese. Pour the dressing over the top and toss until everything is evenly coated.
- Chill:
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or overnight, to allow the flavors to meld together.
- Serve:
- Give the salad a quick toss before serving and garnish with additional Parmesan cheese or fresh parsley if desired.
Tips for Success
- Customize veggies: Add your favorite vegetables like carrots, broccoli, or avocado for extra texture and flavor.
- Make it heartier: Mix in cooked chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas for added protein.
- Use fresh dressing: Homemade Italian dressing makes this salad taste even better!
This California Spaghetti Salad is a light, zesty, and colorful dish that’s sure to be a hit at any gathering. It’s easy to make and even better the next day! 🍅🥒🍝