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ge. The dressing soaks into the pasta and veggies, enhancing the flavor.
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🌱 4. Customizable
Not a fan of olives? Leave them out. Want to add protein? Toss in grilled chicken, chickpeas, or mozzarella balls. You can easily tweak the ingredients to suit your taste.
🍴 5. Ideal for Any Occasion
Whether you’re hosting a summer BBQ, attending a potluck, or looking for a side dish to go with dinner, this salad fits the bill. It’s light enough for warm weather but hearty enough to satisfy.
Tips for Success
- Break the spaghetti before cooking—it makes the salad easier to eat and mix.
- Use a flavorful Italian dressing. Store-bought works fine, but homemade can give you more control over sweetness, acidity, and spice.
- Chill well before serving to allow flavors to develop. The salad is best served cold.
- Make it more hearty by adding chickpeas, grilled shrimp, feta cheese, or avocado slices.
Variations
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free spaghetti or substitute with spiralized zucchini noodles for a low-carb option.
- Mediterranean Style: Add feta cheese, Kalamata olives, and a squeeze of lemon for a Greek twist.
- Spicy Kick: Toss in sliced jalapeños or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes if you like heat.
Final Thoughts
California Spaghetti Salad is proof that pasta salad doesn’t have to be heavy or boring. With its crisp veggies, zesty dressing, and refreshing vibe, it’s the kind of dish that makes you look forward to leftovers. It’s simple to prepare, endlessly adaptable, and guaranteed to brighten up any table—no matter the season.
So grab your veggies, boil that pasta, and make this colorful salad for your next gathering or meal prep session. You’ll be hooked from the first bite!
Would you like a printable recipe card or meal pairing ideas to go with this salad?