“California Avocado and Artichoke Pasta Salad”

Enhance your California Spaghetti Salad with a creamy twist by incorporating avocado and artichoke hearts, adding depth and flavor to this delightful dish. Whether you’re looking to boost its richness or add protein, chicken or salami can make excellent additions. For a lighter touch, blend half of the Italian dressing with a touch of olive oil and fresh lemon juice. Experiment with different pasta shapes and textures to elevate this salad to new heights of culinary delight.

Ingredients:

• 8 oz spaghetti or pasta of your choice
• 1 ripe avocado, diced
• 1 cup artichoke hearts, drained and chopped
• 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
• 1/2 cup cooked chicken breast or salami, diced (optional)
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Dressing:

• 1/2 cup Italian dressing
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Juice of 1 lemon
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1. Cook Pasta: Cook the spaghetti or pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process. Allow to cool.
2. Prepare Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the Italian dressing, olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Adjust seasoning to taste.
3. Assemble Salad: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked and cooled pasta with diced avocado, chopped artichoke hearts, halved cherry tomatoes, diced cucumber, diced red onion, sliced black olives, chopped parsley, and diced chicken or salami (if using).
4. Add Dressing: Pour the dressing over the salad ingredients and toss gently until everything is well coated.
5. Chill and Serve: Cover the salad and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. Before serving, taste and adjust seasoning if needed with additional salt and pepper.
6. Garnish and Enjoy: Garnish the salad with extra chopped parsley or sliced avocado if desired. Serve chilled as a refreshing and satisfying meal or side dish.

This California Spaghetti Salad with creamy avocado and artichoke hearts is a delightful combination of textures and flavors. It’s perfect for picnics, potlucks, or as a light and flavorful lunch. Feel free to customize with your favorite ingredients and enjoy the fresh taste of California in every bite!

________________________________________for more recipes click here