California Spaghetti Salad

How to make California Spaghetti Salad

Ingredients:

– 1 lb spaghetti, cooked and drained

– 1 1/2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved

– 1 cucumber, diced

– 2 zucchini, diced

– 1 green bell pepper, diced

– 1 red bell pepper, diced

– 1 red onion, diced

– 1 can sliced black olives, drained

For the dressing:

– 1 bottle Italian dressing

– 1/2 cup parmesan cheese, grated

– 1 tablespoon sesame seeds

– 1 teaspoon paprika

– 1/2 teaspoon celery seed

– 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder

Preparation

– Cook spaghetti according to directions on package, and drain and rinse in cold water.

– In a large bowl, combine zucchini, tomatoes, cucumber, bell peppers, onion, and black olives.

– In a small bowl, whisk together Italian dressing, sesame seeds, parmesan cheese, paprika, celery seed, and garlic powder.

– Add cooked spaghetti to vegetables and olives, then add dressing and toss together thoroughly.

– Cover and set in refrigerator to chill for at least 3 hours. Serve chilled and enjoy!

Nutrition Information:

Serving Size: 1 cup

Frequently Asked Questions:

Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes, you can make this salad ahead of time. In fact, it is recommended to let it chill in the refrigerator for at least 3 hours before serving to allow the flavors to meld together.

Can I customize the vegetables in the salad?

Absolutely! The listed vegetables are just a suggestion. Feel free to add or substitute with your favorite vegetables to suit your taste preferences.

Can I use a different type of dressing instead of Italian dressing?

Yes, you can use a different type of dressing if you prefer. Italian dressing adds a tangy flavor, but you can experiment with other dressings such as ranch or balsamic vinaigrette.

Can I add protein to the salad?

Yes, you can add protein to the salad if desired. Grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu can be great additions to make the salad more substantial and satisfying.

How long does this salad last in the refrigerator?

When stored properly in an airtight container, this salad can be refrigerated for up to 3-4 days. It is best to consume it within that time frame for optimal freshness.

Can I use whole wheat or gluten-free spaghetti?

Yes, you can use whole wheat or gluten-free spaghetti instead of regular spaghetti if you prefer.

Adjust the cooking time according to the package instructions for the specific type of pasta you’re using.

Can I add or substitute other vegetables?

Absolutely! Feel free to customize the salad with your favorite vegetables. You can add or substitute ingredients such as spinach, corn, carrots, or even broccoli to add more color and flavor.

Can I make the dressing from scratch?

Yes, if you prefer to make the dressing from scratch, you can combine olive oil, vinegar (such as red wine vinegar), herbs (such as basil and oregano), garlic, and salt and pepper to taste. Adjust the quantities according to your preference.

Can I make the salad in advance and store it overnight?

Yes, you can prepare the salad in advance and store it in the refrigerator overnight. Just make sure to cover it tightly to keep it fresh.

The flavors will continue to develop and blend together, making it even more delicious.

Can I serve this salad warm instead of chilled?

While California Spaghetti Salad is traditionally served chilled, you can serve it warm if you prefer.

Simply skip the refrigeration step and serve it immediately after tossing the pasta with the vegetables and dressing.