California Spaghetti Salad Ina Garten: The Perfect Refreshing Pasta Salad for Summer Entertaining

When it comes to easy, flavorful, and crowd-pleasing dishes, the California Spaghetti Salad Ina Garten recipe has quickly become one of my all-time favorites. This refreshing pasta salad is packed with vibrant vegetables, tender spaghetti, and a tangy dressing that brings every bite to life. Inspired by Ina Garten’s knack for combining simple ingredients into elegant dishes, this salad is perfect for summer gatherings, potlucks, or a light lunch. I first discovered this recipe while searching for a new twist on classic pasta salads, and it’s been a staple ever since in my family’s meals.

What is California Spaghetti Salad Ina Garten?

The California Spaghetti Salad Ina Garten is a pasta salad that embodies the fresh, vibrant flavors of California’s produce. It features spaghetti pasta tossed with an assortment of crunchy vegetables like bell peppers, cucumbers, tomatoes, and red onions, all brought together with a tangy and slightly sweet dressing that Ina Garten is known for. This salad is more than just a side dish; it’s a colorful, satisfying meal that balances textures and tastes perfectly.

Originating from Ina Garten’s cookbook and TV show repertoire, this salad has gained popularity for its simplicity and the way it transforms everyday ingredients into something extraordinary. It is often served chilled, making it an ideal dish for warm weather and outdoor entertaining.

Why You’ll Love California Spaghetti Salad Ina Garten

There are many reasons why the California Spaghetti Salad Ina Garten stands out as a summer favorite:

• Easy to Prepare: The recipe requires minimal cooking skills and comes together quickly.

• Fresh and Healthy: Packed with fresh vegetables, it’s a nutritious choice.

• Versatile: Serve it as a side dish or a light main course.

• Make-Ahead Friendly: It tastes even better after chilling for a few hours.

• Crowd-Pleasing: The balance of flavors appeals to a wide variety of palates.

The balance of crisp veggies and tender pasta, paired with Ina Garten’s signature dressing, makes this salad a perfect complement to barbecues, picnics, and potlucks.

 Ingredients for California Spaghetti Salad Ina Garten

To make the California Spaghetti Salad Ina Garten, you’ll need these fresh ingredients:

• Spaghetti pasta (preferably thin, like angel hair or regular spaghetti)

  

• Cherry tomatoes, halved

• Cucumbers, diced

• Red bell pepper, diced

• Red onion, thinly sliced

• Fresh basil leaves, chopped

• Black olives (optional for a salty kick)

• Parmesan cheese, shredded or shaved

For the dressing:

• Olive oil (extra virgin for best flavor)

• Red wine vinegar

• Dijon mustard

• Honey or maple syrup for sweetness

• Garlic, minced

• Salt and freshly ground black pepper

This combination creates a vibrant salad with the perfect blend of acidity, sweetness, and savoriness.

How to Make California Spaghetti Salad Ina Garten – Step by Step

California Spaghetti Salad Ina Garten

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• Author: Fati Bendahi
• Total Time: 25 minutes + 1 hour chilling
• Yield: 4 servings
• Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

This California Spaghetti Salad Ina Garten is a fresh and vibrant pasta salad perfect for summer. It combines tender spaghetti with juicy cherry tomatoes, crisp cucumbers, Kalamata olives, and fresh herbs tossed in Ina Garten’s signature tangy dressing. Easy to prepare and packed with flavor, it’s ideal for picnics, potlucks, or a light meal.

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Ingredients

• 8 oz spaghetti pasta

• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved (mix of red, yellow, orange)

• 1 medium cucumber, thinly sliced

• 1 red bell pepper, diced

• 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced

• 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted

• 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped

• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped

• 1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese

For the dressing:

• 1/3 cup extra virgin olive oil

• 3 tbsp red wine vinegar

• 1 tbsp Dijon mustard

• 1 tbsp honey or maple syrup

• 1 clove garlic, minced

• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

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Instructions

1. Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti and cook until al dente (about 8-10 minutes). Drain and rinse under cold water to cool. Drain well.

2. Prepare the dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, honey, and minced garlic. Season with salt and pepper.

3. Combine vegetables: In a large bowl, mix the cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red bell pepper, red onion, Kalamata olives, basil, and parsley.

4. Mix pasta and dressing: Add the cooled spaghetti to the vegetable mixture. Pour the dressing over and toss gently to coat all ingredients evenly.

5. Add cheese: Sprinkle the Parmesan cheese over the salad and toss lightly.

6. Chill: Cover the salad and refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving to let flavors meld.

7. Serve: Give the salad a final toss and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed. Serve chilled.

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Notes

• For a protein boost, add grilled chicken or chickpeas.

• Use gluten-free pasta if preferred.

• Add other fresh veggies like zucchini ribbons or radishes for variation.

• Dressing can be adjusted for sweetness or acidity to taste.

• Best served within 2-3 days refrigerated.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Category: Salad
• Method: Boiling, Tossing
• Cuisine: Californian, American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 350 kcal
• Sugar: 5 g
• Sodium: 400 mg
• Fat: 18 g
• Saturated Fat: 3.5 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 14 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 40 g
• Fiber: 4 g
• Protein: 10 g
• Cholesterol: 10 mg

Making the California Spaghetti Salad Ina Garten is simple and rewarding. Here’s the step-by-step guide.

Preparing the Pasta for California Spaghetti Salad Ina Garten

Start by cooking the spaghetti pasta in plenty of salted boiling water. Follow the package instructions for al dente texture, which means the pasta is tender but still firm to the bite. This is important because the pasta will continue to soften when mixed with the dressing and chilled.

Once cooked, drain the pasta and rinse it under cold water to stop the cooking process and cool it down for the salad. Drain thoroughly to prevent excess water from diluting your dressing.

Making the Dressing for California Spaghetti Salad Ina Garten

While the pasta cooks, prepare Ina Garten’s signature dressing by whisking together olive oil, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, honey, and minced garlic in a small bowl. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.

The dressing is tangy with a touch of sweetness, creating a perfect balance that brings out the freshness of the vegetables and pasta.

Combining the Ingredients in California Spaghetti Salad Ina Garten

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled spaghetti with diced cucumbers, halved cherry tomatoes, diced red bell pepper, and thinly sliced red onion. Add chopped fresh basil leaves and black olives if you like a salty contrast.

Pour the dressing over the salad and toss everything gently but thoroughly so the pasta and vegetables are evenly coated. Finally, sprinkle with shredded Parmesan cheese for a savory finish.

Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving. This chilling time allows the flavors to meld and the salad to become even more delicious.

Tips to Customize Your California Spaghetti Salad Ina Garten

While the classic California Spaghetti Salad Ina Garten recipe is fantastic as is, here are some customization tips to make it your own:

• Add Protein: Grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas can turn it into a complete meal.

• Swap Pasta: Use whole wheat spaghetti or gluten-free pasta for dietary preferences.

• Extra Veggies: Add sliced radishes, zucchini ribbons, or avocado for extra texture.

• Cheese Options: Try feta or goat cheese instead of Parmesan.

• Herbs: Mix in fresh parsley, oregano, or mint for different flavor profiles.

• Spice it Up: Add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the dressing.

These variations keep the salad exciting while maintaining the fresh and tangy essence that makes the original so beloved.

Serving Suggestions for California Spaghetti Salad Ina Garten

The California Spaghetti Salad Ina Garten shines at any casual or formal gathering. Serve it alongside grilled meats, seafood, or roasted vegetables. It also pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or a fresh green salad.

For entertaining, present the salad in a large colorful bowl garnished with whole basil leaves and extra Parmesan shavings. It makes an attractive centerpiece that invites guests to dig in.

For a picnic or potluck, transport it in a sealable container and toss lightly before serving to redistribute the dressing.

Storing and Leftover Tips for California Spaghetti Salad Ina Garten

This salad stores well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep it covered tightly to preserve freshness. Note that the pasta may absorb more dressing over time, so you might want to add a splash of olive oil or vinegar and toss before serving leftovers.

If you plan to store it overnight, consider adding the Parmesan cheese just before serving to keep it fresh.

Frequently Asked Questions About California Spaghetti Salad Ina Garten

Q: Can I make California Spaghetti Salad Ina Garten ahead of time?
A: Absolutely! It’s even better after chilling for a few hours as the flavors develop.

Q: What kind of pasta is best for California Spaghetti Salad Ina Garten?
A: Thin spaghetti or angel hair pasta works best to absorb the dressing and mix well with vegetables.

Q: Is California Spaghetti Salad Ina Garten gluten-free?
A: Traditional spaghetti contains gluten, but you can substitute with gluten-free pasta to make it gluten-free.

Q: Can I use other vegetables besides the ones listed?
A: Yes! Feel free to add or substitute veggies like zucchini, radishes, or avocado.

Q: How do I store leftover California Spaghetti Salad Ina Garten?
A: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days, toss before serving.

The California Spaghetti Salad Ina Garten is a refreshing, delicious, and versatile pasta salad that’s perfect for warm-weather meals. Its bright flavors, simple ingredients, and easy preparation make it a standout recipe for anyone looking to add a touch of Ina Garten’s elegance to their table. Whether served at a summer barbecue or a casual lunch, this salad will quickly become a favorite.