California Spaghetti Salad – A Fresh, Flavor-Packed Pasta Salad Recipe

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California Spaghetti Salad – A Fresh, Flavor-Packed Pasta Salad Recipe

Looking for the perfect side dish to brighten up your next picnic, barbecue, or potluck? California Spaghetti Salad is the answer. This vibrant, vegetable-packed pasta salad is not only colorful and refreshing, but also incredibly simple to make. With crisp vegetables, tender spaghetti noodles, and a zesty homemade dressing, this dish delivers bold flavor and satisfying crunch in every bite. Whether served as a side or enjoyed as a light main dish, this salad is guaranteed to impress.

Ingredients – Fresh, Flavorful, and Simple

This dish relies on fresh produce and pantry staples, making it a go-to recipe for any season. Here’s everything you’ll need:

Salad Ingredients

  • 1 lb (16 oz) spaghetti, cooked and drained
  • 1 ½ cups cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1 cucumber, diced
  • 2 zucchini, diced
  • 1 green bell pepper, diced
  • 1 red bell pepper, diced
  • 1 small red onion, diced
  • 1 can (2.25 oz) sliced black olives, drained

Dressing Ingredients

  • 1 bottle (16 oz) of Italian dressing (store-bought or homemade)
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 tablespoon sesame seeds
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • ½ teaspoon celery seeds
  • ¼ teaspoon garlic powder

How to Make California Spaghetti Salad – Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Spaghetti

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti and cook according to package directions until al dente. Once done, drain and rinse the noodles under cold water to stop the cooking process and remove excess starch.

Pro Tip: Break the spaghetti in half before boiling to make it easier to eat and mix with vegetables.

Step 2: Prep the Vegetables

While the pasta cools, prepare the fresh vegetables. Dice the cucumber, zucchini, bell peppers, and red onion, and halve the cherry tomatoes. Drain the can of black olives and set everything aside.

Combine all the vegetables and olives in a large mixing bowl.

Step 3: Whisk the Zesty Dressing

In a medium bowl, whisk together the following ingredients:

  • Italian dressing
  • Grated Parmesan cheese
  • Sesame seeds
  • Paprika
  • Celery seeds
  • Garlic powder

This blend gives the salad its signature California flair—tangy, cheesy, and herbaceous with a hint of nuttiness from the sesame seeds.

Step 4: Toss Everything Together

Add the cooled spaghetti to the bowl with the vegetables. Pour the entire dressing mixture over the top. Use tongs or two large spoons to toss everything together until well-coated.

Make sure the dressing is evenly distributed so that each bite bursts with flavor.

Step 5: Chill Before Serving

Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a tight-fitting lid. Place it in the refrigerator to chill for at least 3 hours before serving. This resting period allows the pasta to absorb the flavors, making the salad more cohesive and flavorful.

For best results, chill overnight. The salad gets even better with time!

Serving Suggestions – Perfect for Every Occasion

California Spaghetti Salad is incredibly versatile and works with a variety of meals. Serve it as:

  • A side dish for grilled meats, fish, or sandwiches
  • A standalone light lunch or picnic meal
  • A potluck favorite for barbecues, family reunions, or summer cookouts

Garnish with extra Parmesan cheese or fresh herbs like basil or parsley for a beautiful presentation.

Make It Your Own – Customization Ideas

Want to put a twist on the classic version? Try these optional additions:

  • Add protein: Grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas for a heartier dish
  • Change the pasta: Use rotini, bow tie, or penne instead of spaghetti
  • Include more vegetables: Add shredded carrots, broccoli florets, or corn
  • Make it spicy: Toss in sliced jalapeños or red pepper flakes
  • Try a homemade dressing: Mix olive oil, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, Italian herbs, and a touch of honey for a cleaner version

Storage Tips – Keep It Fresh

  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3–4 days.
  • If the pasta absorbs too much dressing over time, add a splash of Italian dressing or olive oil to freshen it up before serving.
  • This salad does not freeze well, so enjoy it fresh and refrigerated only.

Why You’ll Love California Spaghetti Salad

  • Quick and easy to prepare – done in under 30 minutes (plus chilling)
  • Colorful and eye-catching – perfect for entertaining
  • Loaded with fresh, crunchy vegetables
  • Great for meal prep – make ahead and enjoy throughout the week
  • Customizable to suit any dietary preference

Whether you’re planning a summer picnic or just want something fresh and flavorful on your dinner table, California Spaghetti Salad is a must-try recipe that everyone will enjoy.

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