California Spaghetti Salad

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Colorful Pasta Salad Recipe

This vibrant and refreshing pasta salad is a perfect choice for any gathering or a light meal. The combination of fresh vegetables, tangy Italian dressing, and zesty seasonings creates a delicious and satisfying dish that’s easy to prepare and full of flavor.

Ingredients

  • 400-500 grams of spaghetti
  • 1½ cups cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1 cucumber, diced
  • 2 zucchinis, diced
  • 1 green pepper, diced
  • 1 red pepper, diced
  • 1 red onion, diced
  • 1 cup black olives, sliced and drained
  • For the Dressing:
    • 1 bottle Italian dressing
    • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
    • 1 tablespoon sesame seeds
    • 1 teaspoon paprika
    • ¼ teaspoon celery seeds
    • ½ teaspoon garlic powder

Instructions

  1. Cook the Pasta:
    • Cook the spaghetti according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process and cool the pasta. Set aside.
  2. Prepare the Vegetables:
    • In a large mixing bowl, combine the diced zucchini, cherry tomatoes, green pepper, red pepper, red onion, diced cucumber, and sliced black olives.
  3. Make the Dressing:
    • In a separate bowl, whisk together the Italian dressing, grated Parmesan cheese, sesame seeds, paprika, celery seeds, and garlic powder until well combined.
  4. Combine Ingredients:
    • Add the cooked spaghetti to the bowl with the chopped vegetables and olives. Pour the dressing over the pasta and vegetables. Toss everything together until the pasta and vegetables are evenly coated with the dressing.
  5. Chill and Serve:
    • Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 3 hours to allow the flavors to meld and the pasta to absorb the dressing. Serve chilled and enjoy!

Tips

  • Customization: Feel free to add or substitute other vegetables based on your preferences or what’s in season. Ingredients like diced carrots, artichoke hearts, or chopped fresh herbs can be excellent additions.
  • Cheese Options: If you prefer, you can use feta cheese or shredded mozzarella instead of Parmesan for a different flavor profile.
  • Make-Ahead: This pasta salad can be made a day in advance. The flavors tend to develop even more as it sits in the fridge.
  • Serving Suggestion: This salad pairs wonderfully with grilled chicken or as a side dish for a summer barbecue.
  • Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

This pasta salad is a delightful and versatile dish that brings a burst of freshness and flavor to your table. Enjoy it as a main course or a side dish at your next meal or gathering!

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