California Spaghetti Salad is a vibrant and fresh dish that’s perfect for potlucks, barbecues, or a light meal. This pasta salad is loaded with crisp veggies, cheese, and a delicious, creamy dressing. It’s a fun twist on traditional pasta salads and features a perfect balance of flavors and textures. Here’s how to make it:
California Spaghetti Salad Recipe
Ingredients:
- 12 oz spaghetti pasta
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup cucumber, diced
- 1/2 cup red bell pepper, diced
- 1/2 cup black olives, sliced
- 1/2 cup red onion, thinly sliced
- 1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped (optional for garnish)
For the Dressing:
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup sour cream
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook the Spaghetti:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the spaghetti according to the package directions until al dente.
- Drain and rinse the pasta under cold water to stop the cooking process and cool it down. Set aside.
2. Prepare the Vegetables:
- While the pasta is cooling, dice the cucumber, red bell pepper, and red onion.
- Halve the cherry tomatoes and slice the black olives.
3. Make the Dressing:
- In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sour cream, olive oil, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, and garlic powder until smooth.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Combine the Salad:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled spaghetti, chopped vegetables (tomatoes, cucumbers, bell pepper, onion, and olives), and shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheeses.
5. Toss with Dressing:
- Pour the prepared dressing over the pasta and toss everything together until evenly coated.
6. Chill and Serve:
- Refrigerate the salad for at least 1 hour before serving to allow the flavors to meld.
- Before serving, garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color and extra freshness.
Tips:
- Add Protein: To make this salad a more substantial meal, you can add some grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu for extra protein.
- Customize the Veggies: Feel free to add or swap other veggies like carrots, peas, or corn based on your preferences.
- Make Ahead: This salad can be made a day ahead. Just keep it covered in the fridge and give it a good stir before serving.
This California Spaghetti Salad is a refreshing, colorful, and creamy pasta salad that’s sure to be a hit at any gathering! 🍝🍅🥒