California Spaghetti Salad

Recipe: California Spaghetti Salad

Preparation Time: 20 minutes
Cooking Time: 10 minutes (for spaghetti)
Chilling Time: 2 hours
Serves: 8

Ingredients:

For the Salad:

• 8 oz spaghetti, cooked and cooled
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 cucumber, diced
• 1 bell pepper (any color), diced
• 1/2 red onion, finely chopped
• 1/2 cup black olives, sliced
• 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped

For the Dressing:

• 1/3 cup extra virgin olive oil
• 1/4 cup red wine vinegar
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon honey
• Salt and black pepper to taste

Instructions:

Cook the Spaghetti:

1. Cook the spaghetti according to package instructions.
2. Drain and rinse with cold water to cool quickly.
3. Set aside.

Prepare the Dressing:

1. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, honey, salt, and black pepper.
2. Set aside.

Assemble the Salad:

1. In a large bowl, combine the cooled spaghetti, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, bell pepper, red onion, black olives, feta cheese, and fresh parsley.
2. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss until everything is well coated.

Chill:

1. Cover the bowl and refrigerate the California Spaghetti Salad for at least 2 hours to allow the flavors to meld.

Serve:

1. Before serving, toss the salad again to redistribute the dressing.
2. Serve chilled and enjoy this refreshing and flavorful California Spaghetti Salad!

Note: Feel free to customize the salad with additional veggies, such as avocado or artichoke hearts, and add grilled chicken or shrimp for protein.

This California Spaghetti Salad is perfect for picnics, potlucks, or as a refreshing side dish for any occasion. Enjoy the combination of pasta, fresh vegetables, and a zesty dressing!