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California Spaghetti Salad Amazingly Fresh Recipe


  • Author: Nyla Recipes
  • Total Time: 30M

Description

Amazingly fresh California Spaghetti Salad recipe A vibrant flavorful pasta salad perfect for potlucks BBQs Easy quick to make


Ingredients

  • Spaghetti
  • Bell peppers (red, yellow, orange)
  • Cucumber
  • Cherry tomatoes
  • Red onion
  • Black olives
  • Broccoli florets
  • Olive oil (extra virgin)
  • Red wine vinegar
  • Lemon juice
  • Dijon mustard
  • Garlic
  • Honey or maple syrup
  • Salt and pepper
  • Italian seasoning
  • Optional: Cheese (Feta, mozzarella, or Parmesan)
  • Optional: Protein (Grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas)
  • Optional: Fresh herbs (Parsley, basil, or oregano)
  • Optional: Sun-dried tomatoes
  • Optional: Avocado

Instructions

  • Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti and cook according to package directions, until al dente. Drain the pasta and rinse it with cold water to stop the cooking process. This is crucial for preventing the pasta from sticking together.
  • While the pasta is cooking, chop all the vegetables into bite-sized pieces. The smaller the pieces, the easier it will be to eat. Place all the chopped vegetables in a large bowl.
  • In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, honey (or maple syrup), salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Taste and adjust the seasonings as needed.
  • Add the cooked pasta to the bowl with the vegetables. Pour the dressing over the pasta and vegetables and toss gently to combine. Make sure everything is evenly coated with the dressing.
  • Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. The longer it chills, the better it will taste. Before serving, give the salad another toss and add any optional add-ins, such as cheese, protein, or fresh herbs.

Notes

  • Don’t overcook the pasta: Al dente is key!
  • Rinse the pasta with cold water: This stops the cooking process and prevents sticking.
  • Chop the vegetables into uniform sizes: This ensures that everything cooks evenly and looks appealing.
  • Taste and adjust the dressing: Don’t be afraid to add more salt, pepper, or vinegar to suit your taste.
  • Let the salad chill for at least 30 minutes: This allows the flavors to meld together.
  • Add delicate ingredients just before serving: Avocado, fresh herbs, and certain cheeses are best added right before serving to prevent them from browning or wilting.
  • Category: Salad
  • Method: Salad
  • Cuisine: American

Keywords: California, Spaghetti, Salad, potlucks, barbecues, lunch, picnic, vegetables, pasta, vinaigrette