Vegan California Spaghetti Salad
Introduction: Experience the taste of sunny California with our Vegan California Spaghetti Salad—a vibrant and refreshing dish that combines the flavors of ripe avocados, juicy tomatoes, crisp vegetables, and zesty dressing with the comfort of spaghetti noodles. This plant-based rendition of the classic spaghetti salad celebrates the abundance of fresh produce and wholesome ingredients, offering a delightful medley of textures and flavors that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether served as a side dish at a summer barbecue or enjoyed as a light lunch on a warm day, this salad is sure to brighten your palate and nourish your body.
Ingredients: For the Salad:
- 8 ounces spaghetti noodles (whole wheat or gluten-free)
- 1 large avocado, diced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup diced cucumber
- 1/4 cup diced red onion
- 1/4 cup sliced black olives
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro (optional)
For the Dressing:
- 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
- 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Cook the spaghetti noodles according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool. Transfer the noodles to a large mixing bowl.
- Add the diced avocado, halved cherry tomatoes, diced cucumber, diced red onion, sliced black olives, chopped fresh parsley, and chopped fresh cilantro (if using) to the bowl with the cooked spaghetti noodles. Gently toss to combine all the ingredients.
- In a small mixing bowl, whisk together the extra-virgin olive oil, balsamic vinegar, lemon juice, minced garlic, Dijon mustard, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper until well combined.
- Pour the dressing over the spaghetti salad and toss until everything is evenly coated with the dressing.
- Cover the salad and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
- Once chilled, give the salad a final toss and adjust seasoning if needed.
- Serve the Vegan California Spaghetti Salad chilled or at room temperature, and enjoy the vibrant flavors of this refreshing dish.
Nutritional Information (per serving, based on 6 servings):
- Calories: 250
- Total Fat: 13g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Sodium: 120mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 29g
- Dietary Fiber: 5g
- Sugars: 2g
- Protein: 5g
Smart WW Points: 7 points per serving
Conclusion: In conclusion, our Vegan California Spaghetti Salad is a celebration of fresh ingredients, vibrant colors, and delightful flavors that capture the essence of California cuisine. From the creamy avocado to the juicy cherry tomatoes and crisp vegetables, every bite is a burst of freshness and goodness. Whether enjoyed as a side dish, a light lunch, or a refreshing addition to your summer meals, this salad is sure to impress with its simplicity and versatility. So, whip up a batch of this delicious salad and treat yourself to a taste of sunny California with every forkful.
Introduction: Indulge in the culinary delights of the West Coast with our Vegan California Spaghetti Salad—a tantalizing fusion of vibrant colors, refreshing textures, and zesty flavors that celebrate the essence of California cuisine. Inspired by the abundance of fresh produce and the laid-back lifestyle of the Golden State, this salad is a perfect embodiment of the sunny spirit and wholesome goodness that California is renowned for. Whether you’re hosting a summer soirée, planning a picnic in the park, or simply craving a light and satisfying meal, this salad is sure to delight your taste buds and nourish your body.
Ingredients: For the Salad:
- 8 ounces spaghetti noodles (whole wheat or gluten-free)
- 1 large avocado, diced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup diced cucumber
- 1/4 cup diced red onion
- 1/4 cup sliced black olives
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro (optional)
For the Dressing:
- 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
- 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Begin by cooking the spaghetti noodles according to the package instructions until al dente. Once cooked, drain the noodles and rinse them under cold water to cool them down. Transfer the noodles to a large mixing bowl.
- Next, prepare the vegetables for the salad. Dice the avocado, halve the cherry tomatoes, dice the cucumber, and slice the red onion. Add these to the bowl with the cooked spaghetti noodles.
- To add a burst of flavor and texture, include sliced black olives, chopped fresh parsley, and chopped fresh cilantro (if desired) to the salad bowl.
- Now, let’s prepare the dressing. In a small mixing bowl, combine the extra-virgin olive oil, balsamic vinegar, lemon juice, minced garlic, Dijon mustard, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper. Whisk until all the ingredients are well incorporated.
- Pour the dressing over the salad ingredients in the bowl. Using salad tongs or a large spoon, gently toss everything together until the noodles and vegetables are evenly coated with the dressing.
- Once the salad is well mixed, cover the bowl and refrigerate it for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together and for the salad to chill.
- After the chilling time, give the salad a final toss and taste for seasoning. Adjust with additional salt and pepper if needed.
- Serve the Vegan California Spaghetti Salad chilled, and enjoy the refreshing flavors and vibrant colors of this delightful dish.
Nutritional Information (per serving, based on 6 servings):
- Calories: 250
- Total Fat: 13g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Sodium: 120mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 29g
- Dietary Fiber: 5g
- Sugars: 2g
- Protein: 5g
Smart WW Points: 7 points per serving
Conclusion: In conclusion, our Vegan California Spaghetti Salad is a culinary masterpiece that embodies the essence of California’s bountiful harvest and vibrant culinary scene. With its colorful array of fresh vegetables, creamy avocado, and zesty dressing, this salad offers a symphony of flavors and textures that will tantalize your taste buds and leave you feeling nourished and satisfied. Whether enjoyed as a light lunch, a side dish at a barbecue, or a refreshing addition to your summer menu, this salad is sure to impress with its simplicity, freshness, and delightful flavors. So, bring a taste of California to your table and savor every forkful of this exquisite Vegan California Spaghetti Salad.