Health Easy California Spaghetti Salad Recipe

Healthy & Easy California Spaghetti Salad is a colorful, refreshing pasta salad packed with crisp vegetables, wholesome ingredients, and vibrant flavors. Made with spaghetti, fresh tomatoes, cucumbers, bell peppers, and a light dressing, it is perfect for picnics, meal prep, potlucks, or a quick family meal. This salad provides a satisfying balance of carbohydrates, fiber, vitamins, and minerals, while the abundance of vegetables adds freshness and nutritional value. It can be easily customized with lean proteins or additional vegetables to suit different preferences. For those following the WeightWatchers(WW), this recipe can be a smart option when prepared with a lighter dressing and plenty of vegetables, as the high-volume, nutrient-dense ingredients can help promote fullness and satisfaction. Its combination of fresh produce, simple preparation, and make-ahead convenience makes California Spaghetti Salad a practical and delicious choice for healthy eating.

Ingredients:

For the Salad:

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• 8 ounces spaghetti, cooked and cooled
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 cup cucumber, diced
• 1 cup bell peppers (mix of colors), diced
• 1/2 cup black olives, sliced
• 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled (optional)
• 1/4 cup sunflower seeds or pine nuts (optional)

For the Dressing:

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

Instructions:

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked and cooled spaghetti with cherry tomatoes, cucumber, bell peppers, black olives, red onion, and fresh parsley.
2. In a small bowl or jar, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, honey, minced garlic, salt, and black pepper. Adjust the seasonings to taste.
3. Pour the dressing over the pasta and vegetables. Toss everything together until well coated.
4. If using, sprinkle crumbled feta cheese and sunflower seeds or pine nuts over the top of the salad.
5. Refrigerate the California Spaghetti Salad for at least 1-2 hours before serving to allow the flavors to meld.
6. Before serving, toss the salad again and adjust the seasoning if necessary.
7. Serve chilled and enjoy this refreshing and flavorful California Spaghetti Salad!