Dive into a medley of vibrant flavors with California Spaghetti Salad—a refreshing and zesty twist on the classic pasta salad. Packed with crisp vegetables, flavorful dressing, and al dente spaghetti, this dish is a celebration of freshness. Perfect for picnics, potlucks, or a light summer dinner, California Spaghetti Salad is a crowd-pleaser that captures the essence of the Golden State. Join us in exploring the steps to create this delightful and colorful pasta salad. 🌞🥑
Ingredients:
For the Salad:
- 8 ounces spaghetti, cooked and cooled
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup cucumber, diced
- 1 cup red bell pepper, diced
- 1/2 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup black olives, sliced
- 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
For the Dressing:
- 1/3 cup extra-virgin olive oil
- 1/4 cup red wine vinegar
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon honey
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Cook and Cool Spaghetti: Cook the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Rinse under cold water to cool it down quickly. Set aside.
- Prepare Vegetables: In a large mixing bowl, combine the halved cherry tomatoes, diced cucumber, diced red bell pepper, finely chopped red onion, sliced black olives, crumbled feta cheese, and chopped fresh parsley.
- Make the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the extra-virgin olive oil, red wine vinegar, minced garlic, Dijon mustard, honey, salt, and black pepper. Ensure the dressing is well emulsified.
- Combine and Toss: Add the cooled spaghetti to the bowl of vegetables. Pour the dressing over the salad. Toss everything together until the spaghetti and vegetables are evenly coated with the dressing.
- Chill Before Serving: Cover the California Spaghetti Salad and refrigerate for at least 1-2 hours before serving. This allows the flavors to meld, and the salad to chill.
- Serve and Enjoy: Once chilled, give the salad a final toss, and serve it in a large bowl or plate. Garnish with additional feta cheese and parsley if desired.
- Savor the Sunshine: Delight in the refreshing taste of California Spaghetti Salad, celebrating the combination of pasta and crisp, colorful vegetables. Each bite offers a burst of freshness, making it a perfect dish for warm days or any occasion.
Finally, California Spaghetti Salad exemplifies the joy of combining simple, fresh ingredients to create a harmonious and satisfying dish. The vibrant colors, crisp textures, and zesty dressing combine to make a pasta salad that is as pleasing to the eyes as it is to the palate.
This salad captures the essence of California’s sunny and diverse culinary landscape, whether served as a side dish or as a light meal on its own. Enjoy the flavors of this refreshing pasta salad with friends and family.