California Spaghetti Salad is a vibrant and refreshing dish that brings together the best of pasta and fresh, crisp vegetables. This delightful recipe is perfect for warm days or as a side dish for barbecues and gatherings, offering a burst of colors, flavors, and textures in every bite.
The base of California Spaghetti Salad is, of course, the spaghetti itself. Cooked to al dente perfection, the pasta serves as a neutral canvas to absorb the flavors of the accompanying ingredients. Its twirls intertwine with the other components, creating a satisfying and hearty foundation for the salad.
What sets this salad apart is the medley of colorful vegetables that are incorporated. A rainbow of bell peppers, cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and red onions not only adds visual appeal but also contributes a variety of tastes and textures. The vegetables provide a refreshing crunch and a burst of natural sweetness, enhancing the overall palate of the dish.
To complement the vegetables and pasta, a zesty dressing is a must. A tangy vinaigrette made with olive oil, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, and a hint of Italian seasoning ties the California Spaghetti Salad together. This dressing not only adds a layer of acidity but also infuses the dish with a burst of savory and herbaceous notes.
Cheese lovers will appreciate the addition of crumbled feta or grated Parmesan, which brings a creamy and salty element to the salad. This optional but highly recommended ingredient enhances the overall richness of the dish and adds a satisfying umami flavor to each forkful.
California Spaghetti Salad is incredibly versatile and can be customized to suit various preferences. For a protein boost, grilled chicken or shrimp can be added, turning the salad into a complete and wholesome meal. Additionally, fresh herbs like basil or parsley can be sprinkled on top for an extra layer of freshness.
Served chilled, California Spaghetti Salad is an excellent make-ahead option for picnics or potlucks. The flavors meld together as it sits in the refrigerator, allowing for a more intense and enjoyable taste experience. Whether as a side or a main dish, this pasta salad embodies the essence of California’s fresh and vibrant culinary style. Enjoy the fusion of pasta and vegetables in this delicious and easy-to-make California Spaghetti Salad.
California Spaghetti Salad Recipe | S2Recipes
Details California Spaghetti Salad Recipes
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 10 mins
Cool Time: 3 hrs
Total Time: 3 hrs 25 mins
Servings: 4
Ingredients For California Spaghetti Salad Recipes
2 tablespoons white wine vinegar
2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
2 tablespoons freshly grated Parmesan cheese
2 ½ teaspoons Italian seasoning
1 ½ teaspoons honey
1 clove minced garlic
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
1 teaspoon dried basil
¼ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
⅓ cup olive oil
1 pound thin spaghetti
1 cup baby spinach, rinsed and dried
1 cup chopped broccoli
1 cup frozen peas
1 carrot, grated
½ red onion, thinly sliced
½ cucumber, peeled and thinly sliced
1 Roma tomato, diced
4 ounces crumbled goat cheese, or to taste
¼ cup toasted sliced almonds, or to taste
salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
Instructions: California Spaghetti Salad Recipes
Step 1: Whisk together white wine vinegar, lemon juice, Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, honey, garlic, Dijon mustard, basil, salt, and pepper in a small bowl until well combined. Gradually mix in olive oil, whisking constantly. Set dressing aside.
Step 2: Bring a large pot of lightly salted water to a boil. Cook spaghetti in the boiling water, stirring occasionally, until tender yet firm to the bite, about 12 minutes.
Step 3: While spaghetti cook, prepare all the vegetables. Combine spinach, broccoli, peas, carrot, red onion, cucumber, and tomato in a large bowl.
Step 4: Drain pasta, and add to the bowl with the vegetables. Toss pasta and veggies together. Pour dressing over pasta and veggies and toss until thoroughly combined. Add in goat cheese and almonds and toss again to combine.
Step 5: Cover pasta, and chill in the fridge for at least 3 hours to overnight. Taste pasta salad, and season with more salt and pepper, if necessary.
California Spaghetti Salad stands out for its medley of vibrant vegetables, al dente pasta, and a zesty vinaigrette, creating a refreshing and versatile dish.
✅Q: Can I customize the vegetable quantities in the recipe?
Absolutely! Tailor the amounts of bell peppers, cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and red onions to your liking for a personalized and visually appealing salad.
✅Q: Is there a recommended dressing for California Spaghetti Salad?
Yes, a zesty vinaigrette made with olive oil, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, and Italian seasoning complements the salad perfectly, infusing it with savory and herbaceous notes.
✅Q: Can I add cheese to the salad?
Certainly! Crumbled feta or grated Parmesan adds a creamy and salty element, enhancing the richness and umami flavor of California Spaghetti Salad.
✅Q: Are there protein options to make it a complete meal?
Absolutely! Consider adding grilled chicken or shrimp for a protein boost, transforming the salad into a wholesome and satisfying main course.
✅Q: Can I make California Spaghetti Salad ahead of time?
Yes! Prepare in advance and let it chill in the refrigerator, allowing the flavors to meld for a more intense taste experience. Perfect for picnics and potlucks.
✅Q: Can I use different types of pasta for this recipe?
Certainly! While the recipe typically uses spaghetti, feel free to experiment with other pasta shapes for a fun twist on California Spaghetti Salad.
✅Q: Are there optional ingredients to enhance the salad?
Fresh herbs like basil or parsley can be sprinkled for added freshness and flavor. Get creative and personalize your California Spaghetti Salad to suit your taste preferences.
