CALIFORNIA SPAGHETTI SALAD

Here’s a recipe for California Spaghetti Salad, a refreshing and flavorful pasta salad with a California twist:

Ingredients:

• 8 oz spaghetti or pasta of your choice
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 cup cucumber, diced
• 1 cup bell pepper (red, yellow, or orange), diced
• 1/2 cup red onion, thinly sliced
• 1/2 cup black olives, sliced
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

For the dressing:

• 1/3 cup olive oil
• 1/4 cup red wine vinegar
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup
• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Cook the spaghetti according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process. Transfer to a large mixing bowl.
2. Add the halved cherry tomatoes, diced cucumber, diced bell pepper, thinly sliced red onion, sliced black olives, and chopped fresh parsley to the bowl with the cooked spaghetti.
3. In a small bowl or jar, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, minced garlic, Dijon mustard, honey or maple syrup, dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and pepper to make the dressing.
4. Pour the dressing over the spaghetti and vegetable mixture in the large mixing bowl. Toss everything together until well combined and evenly coated with the dressing.
5. Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the top of the salad and toss again to distribute.
6. Cover the salad and refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving to allow the flavors to meld together.
7. Serve the California Spaghetti Salad chilled or at room temperature as a refreshing side dish or light meal.

This California Spaghetti Salad is perfect for picnics, potlucks, or summer barbecues. Enjoy its vibrant colors and fresh flavors!