Here’s a complete recipe for a California Spaghetti Salad—a colorful, crunchy, and creamy pasta salad perfect for picnics, potlucks, or light meals.
Ingredients (Serves 6–8)
For the Salad
- 8 oz (225 g) spaghetti or other pasta
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup diced bell peppers (red, yellow, or green)
- 1 cup corn kernels (fresh, frozen & thawed, or canned)
- 1 cup diced cucumber
- ½ cup shredded carrots
- ½ cup sliced black olives
- ½ cup diced red onion (optional)
- ½–1 cup shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese
- ¼ cup chopped fresh parsley or cilantro
For the Dressing
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- ¼ cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
- 1–2 tsp apple cider vinegar or lemon juice
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard (optional)
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- Salt & black pepper to taste
Instructions
1. Cook the Pasta
- Cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente.
- Drain and rinse under cold water to cool the pasta.
2. Prepare the Dressing
- In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream (or yogurt), vinegar, mustard, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Adjust seasoning to taste.
3. Combine Salad Ingredients
- In a large bowl, combine cooled pasta, cherry tomatoes, bell peppers, corn, cucumber, carrots, olives, onion, and cheese.
- Pour the dressing over the pasta and vegetables.
- Toss gently to coat evenly.
4. Chill and Serve
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow flavors to meld.
- Garnish with fresh parsley or cilantro before serving.
Tips & Variations
- Protein boost: Add diced grilled chicken, ham, or turkey.
- Veggie swap: Zucchini, peas, or broccoli florets work well.
- Light version: Use all Greek yogurt or low-fat mayo to reduce calories.
- Make-ahead: This salad tastes better after sitting a few hours, but store it in the fridge and consume within 2–3 days.
💡 Fun twist: Top with crushed tortilla chips or roasted sunflower seeds for a crunchy “California crunch.”
If you want, I can also give a quick 10-minute version that uses leftover pasta and pre-cut veggies for an ultra-fast California Spaghetti Salad.
Do you want me to do that?
