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California Spaghetti Salad: The Ultimate Cold Pasta Potluck with Veggie-Loaded Excellence

Description A refreshing pasta salad that combines al dente spaghetti with crisp vegetables, mozzarella pearls, and zesty Italian dressing, perfect for summer gatherings or as a make-ahead side dish.  
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 30 minutes
Servings: 8 servings
Course: Salads
Cuisine: American
Calories: 420

Ingredients
  

  • 1 lb spaghetti
  • 1-2 tbsp salt for boiling the spaghetti
  • 3 mini cucumbers sliced or diced
  • 1.5 cups cherry tomatoes halved
  • 1 green bell pepper diced
  • 1/2 large red onion diced
  • 2.25 oz can of sliced black olives
  • 8 oz mozzarella pearls
  • 16 oz bottle of Italian dressing
  • 2-3 tbsp McCormick Salad Supreme Seasoning
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Method
 

  1. Cook the Pasta: Begin by boiling water in a large pot, adding a generous amount of salt to flavor the spaghetti. Once the water reaches a rolling boil, add 1 pound of spaghetti. Cook until al dente, typically 8-10 minutes, following package instructions. The pasta should be firm to the bite but not hard in the center.
  2. Cool the Pasta: Drain the cooked spaghetti and immediately run it under cold water to halt the cooking process and remove excess starch. This prevents the pasta from becoming sticky and soggy. Transfer the cooled spaghetti to a large bowl and set aside.
  3. Add Vegetables: Add the sliced cucumbers, halved cherry tomatoes, diced green bell pepper, diced red onion, and drained black olives to the bowl with the cooled spaghetti. These fresh vegetables add crunch, color, and nutrients to the salad.
  4. Mix in Remaining Ingredients: Add the mozzarella pearls to the bowl. Pour the Italian dressing over the ingredients, sprinkle the Salad Supreme seasoning, and add the grated Parmesan cheese. The combination of dressing, seasoning, and cheese creates a flavorful coating for all ingredients.
  5. Combine and Chill: Mix everything thoroughly, ensuring all ingredients are well combined and evenly coated with dressing. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least one hour, preferably longer. This chilling time allows the flavors to meld together beautifully, resulting in a more flavorful salad.

Notes

  • For best results, prepare this salad a day in advance to allow flavors to fully develop.
  • If making ahead, you may want to reserve some of the dressing to refresh the salad before serving.
  • Feel free to customize with additional vegetables like grated carrots, broccoli florets, or artichoke hearts.
  • For a more robust flavor, add pepperoncini or a pinch of red pepper flakes.
  • Leftovers will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.