California Spaghetti Salad
Ingredients:
**For the Salad:**
– 1 lb (450 g) spaghetti, cooked and drained
– 1 large cucumber, diced
– 1 pint (about 300 g) cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 green bell pepper, diced
– 1 red onion, finely chopped
– 2 carrots, shredded
– 1 can (2.25 oz or 64 g) sliced black olives, drained
– 1 cup (100 g) shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
**For the Dressing:**
– 1 bottle (16 oz or 475 ml) Italian dressing
– 1 tablespoon paprika
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon onion powder
– 1 teaspoon dried basil
– 1 teaspoon dried parsley
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon sugar (optional, for a touch of sweetness)
Instructions:
1. **Cook the Spaghetti:**
– Cook the spaghetti according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse with cold water to cool the pasta quickly. Set aside.
2. **Prepare the Vegetables:**
– While the spaghetti is cooking, chop the cucumber, cherry tomatoes, bell peppers, and red onion. Shred the carrots.
3. **Mix the Salad:**
– In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked and cooled spaghetti with the diced cucumber, cherry tomatoes, bell peppers, red onion, shredded carrots, and black olives. If using, add the shredded cheddar cheese.
4. **Prepare the Dressing:**
– In a separate bowl, whisk together the Italian dressing, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, dried basil, dried parsley, black pepper, salt, and sugar (if using). Mix well to combine.
5. **Combine and Toss:**
– Pour the dressing over the spaghetti and vegetables. Toss everything together until the salad is evenly coated with the dressing.
6. **Chill and Serve:**
– Cover the salad and refrigerate for at least 1-2 hours to allow the flavors to meld together.
– Before serving, give the salad a quick toss and adjust the seasoning if needed.
Tips:
– **Make Ahead:** This salad can be made the day before and stored in the refrigerator. The flavors will develop even more as it sits.
– **Variations:** Feel free to add other ingredients like diced avocado, artichoke hearts, or fresh herbs for a different twist.
Enjoy!
This **California Spaghetti Salad** is a vibrant and colorful dish that’s perfect for picnics, potlucks, or as a light and refreshing side dish. The crisp vegetables, flavorful dressing, and tender pasta make it a crowd-pleaser!