CALIFORNIA SPAGHETTI SALAD

 California Spaghetti Salad Recipe: A Fresh & Flavorful Pasta Delight

Welcome to your next go-to potluck superstar: California Spaghetti Salad—a vibrant, veggie-packed pasta salad bursting with color, crunch, and bold flavor. This irresistible dish is more than just a side; it’s a celebration of California’s love for fresh produce and laid-back cuisine. Ideal for summer barbecues, family gatherings, or weekday lunches, this cold spaghetti salad marries crisp vegetables with tangy Italian dressing and zesty Parmesan cheese, making it an unforgettable addition to any table.

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Why You’ll Love California Spaghetti Salad

Bright & colorful – Packed with fresh veggies in every shade.

Flavor-loaded – Tangy, zesty, and savory in every bite.

Make-ahead friendly – Tastes even better the next day.

Crowd-pleaser – Loved by both kids and adults.

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Ingredients & Their Purpose

Main Ingredients:

400–500 grams spaghetti

The hearty base of this salad. Cooks up tender and holds the dressing perfectly once cooled.

1½ cups cherry tomatoes, halved

Add a burst of juicy sweetness and vibrant color.

1 cucumber, diced

Offers refreshing crunch and a cool contrast to the dressing.

2 small zucchini, cubed

Adds mild flavor and a satisfying texture that holds up well in pasta salads.

1 green bell pepper, diced

Brings crispness and a mild bitterness that balances the sweetness of other veggies.

1 red bell pepper, diced

Offers sweetness and adds beautiful contrast in color.

1 small red onion, diced

Adds sharpness and depth of flavor. You can soak it briefly in cold water to mellow it out.

1 can sliced black olives, drained

Briny and savory, they balance the flavors and bring a Mediterranean flair.

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For the Dressing:

1 bottle (about 16 oz) Italian dressing

The zesty base that ties everything together. Use a robust, flavorful one for the best results.

½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

Adds salty, nutty richness and helps the dressing cling to the pasta.

1 tablespoon sesame seeds

For a subtle nutty crunch and a surprise twist.

1 teaspoon paprika

Gives a warm, smoky undertone that deepens the flavor.

½ to 1 teaspoon celery seed

A little goes a long way. Brings a unique aromatic element that’s classic in Southern-style salads.

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Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Cook the Spaghetti

Boil spaghetti in salted water according to package directions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process and cool it down. Toss with a little olive oil to prevent sticking.

2. Prep the Veggies

While the pasta cooks, dice the cucumber, zucchini, bell peppers, and onion. Halve the cherry tomatoes and drain the black olives. Set everything aside in a large bowl.

3. Mix the Salad

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled spaghetti with all the chopped vegetables and olives. Pour in the Italian dressing, then add the Parmesan cheese, sesame seeds, paprika, and celery seed.

4. Toss & Chill

Toss everything thoroughly until the pasta is evenly coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours (or overnight) to allow the flavors to meld.

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Pro Tips for the Perfect Spaghetti Salad

Use a bold Italian dressing – Homemade or store-bought, the more flavor-packed, the better.

Let it chill – Don’t skip the refrigeration step. It allows the pasta to absorb the flavors.

Cut veggies evenly – Uniform pieces ensure every bite is balanced and beautiful.

Double for a crowd – This dish scales up effortlessly for parties and cookouts.

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Serving Suggestions

Serve California Spaghetti Salad chilled, garnished with extra Parmesan or fresh herbs like parsley or basil. Pair it with:

Grilled chicken or shrimp for protein.

Garlic bread or focaccia for a hearty combo.

Lemonade or iced tea for a refreshing drink option.

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Why This Recipe Works

California Spaghetti Salad shines because it's fresh, easy, and endlessly customizable. The texture of the spaghetti paired with crunchy vegetables and bold dressing creates a flavor experience that's hard to beat. Whether you serve it at a summer cookout or prep it ahead for busy lunches, this pasta salad delivers every single time.

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Final Thoughts: Simple, Fresh & Irresistibly Delicious

This California Spaghetti Salad is more than just a recipe—it’s a lifestyle of light, healthy eating packed with flavor. With minimal effort and maximum payoff, it’s no wonder this salad is trending across potluck tables and Pinterest boards alike. Whether you're feeding a family or prepping for the week, this is one dish you'll be proud to serve again and again.

Try it today—and taste the C

alifornia sunshine in every bite!

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