I’ve got another great pasta salad for you guys, my California Spaghetti Salad. It’s packed with juicy cherry tomatoes, crisp cucumbers, and a zesty Italian dressing, this salad is a burst of color and taste. It’s quick to make and perfect for any gathering or a light dinner at home.
Italian dressing: I used a mix of store-bought Italian dressing and homemade for extra flavor. It’s zesty and ties all the ingredients together. You can totally make your own Italian dressing using my recipe here. Red wine vinegar: Adds an extra tangy kick to the dressing, enhancing the overall flavor. White wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar are great substitutes. Garlic powder: Provides a subtle garlic flavor without overpowering the salad. Perfect for a little extra depth. Dried herbs: I used a combination of oregano and basil for that classic Mediterranean touch.
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add 1 pound of spaghetti and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool. Set aside.
Tip: Rinsing the pasta helps stop the cooking process and keeps it from sticking together.
In a large bowl, combine 1 cup halved cherry tomatoes, 1 cup diced cucumber, 1 cup diced bell pepper (red, yellow, or green), ½ cup finely chopped red onion, and 1 cup sliced black olives. Toss them together gently.
Tip: Use fresh, ripe veggies for the best flavor and texture.
In a small bowl, whisk together 1 cup Italian dressing, ¼ cup red wine vinegar, 1 teaspoon garlic powder, 1 teaspoon dried oregano, 1 teaspoon dried basil, and salt and pepper to taste.
Tip: Adjust the salt and pepper to your preference. If you prefer a different vinegar, white wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar are good substitutes.
Add the cooled spaghetti to the bowl with the vegetables. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss to combine, making sure all ingredients are evenly coated.
Tip: Toss gently to avoid breaking the spaghetti and to keep the vegetables looking fresh.
Cover the salad and refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together and makes the salad more refreshing.
Tip: Chilling the salad also helps the dressing penetrate the pasta and vegetables, enhancing the overall flavor.
More Delicious Pasta Salads
Dill Pickle Pasta Salad Tortellini Pasta Salad Macaroni Salad Asparagus and Peas Pasta Salad Chicken Club Pasta Salad
