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California spaghetti salad my heavenly Recipes

California spaghetti salad my heavenly Recipes


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  • Author: Fati Bendahi
  • Total Time: 25 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

A vibrant and refreshing California spaghetti salad that blends al dente spaghetti with fresh cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, Kalamata olives, sweet bell peppers, and creamy feta cheese. Tossed in a zesty lemon-mayo dressing and garnished with fresh herbs, this salad is a perfect light meal or side dish, inspired by traditional Californian flavors and my grandmother’s heavenly recipes.


Ingredients

Pasta & Vegetables

  • 8 oz spaghetti (whole wheat or regular)

  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

  • 1 medium cucumber, diced

  • 1 cup sweet corn (fresh or canned)

  • 1 red bell pepper, diced

  • 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped

  • 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and sliced

  • 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped

  • 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped

  • 1/2 cup feta cheese, cubed

Dressing

  • 1/2 cup mayonnaise

  • 1/4 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt

  • 2 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice

  • 1 tbsp honey

  • 1 tsp Dijon mustard

  • Salt and black pepper, to taste

Optional

  • 1 cup grilled chicken breast, sliced

  • 1/2 cup cooked shrimp


Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Spaghetti

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

Step 2: Prepare Vegetables

Wash and chop cherry tomatoes, cucumber, bell pepper, and onion. Chop herbs finely.

Step 3: Make the Dressing

Whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream, lemon juice, honey, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper in a small bowl until smooth.

Step 4: Combine Salad

In a large bowl, mix the cooled spaghetti, vegetables, olives, and herbs. Pour dressing over and toss to coat evenly.

Step 5: Add Cheese and Protein

Fold in feta cheese and optional grilled chicken or shrimp if desired.

Step 6: Chill and Serve

Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld. Serve chilled.

Notes

  • For a vegan version, substitute mayonnaise and sour cream with vegan alternatives or use a tahini dressing.

  • Adjust lemon juice for more tanginess.

  • Add toasted pine nuts or almonds for extra crunch.

  • Best served cold but can be enjoyed at room temperature.

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

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 cup
  • Calories: 350 kcal
  • Sugar: 6 g
  • Sodium: 450 mg
  • Fat: 18 g
  • Saturated Fat: 5 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 35 g
  • Fiber: 4 g
  • Protein: 12 g
  • Cholesterol: 20 mg