Catalina Spaghetti Salad

For added crunch, try adding toasted pine nuts or sunflower seeds to the salad.

If you don't have Catalina dressing, French or Russian dressing can be used as a substitute.

Try adding different veggies like cucumbers, carrots, or sugar snap peas.

For a spicier version, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or chopped jalapenos to the salad.

What is Catalina salad dressing?

Catalina is similar to French dressing. It's a tomato-based dressing that is a little sweet and a little tangy. If you can't find it in stores you can substitute French dressing with a little added sugar. Or you can make your own

What is salad seasoning?

Salad seasoning can be found in the spice aisle under several brand names. It's typically made with Romano cheese, sesame seeds, salt, spices, dehydrated vegetables, sugar, garlic powder, onion powder, etc.

Can I use low fat or non fat cream cheese?

You can use low-fat or non-fat cream cheese but the cheese balls will be much softer and may not hold their shape as well.

Can I use a different type of pasta?

You can use any type of long pasta like fettuccine or linguine if you prefer.

Can I add protein to this salad?

You can add cooked chicken, shrimp, or tofu to make it a more substantial meal.

How long should I chill the salad?

Chilling the salad overnight allows the flavors to marinate and develop fully, but it can also be chilled for a few hours before serving.

Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes, this salad can be made a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator until ready to serve.

Why rinse the pasta in cold water?

Rinsing the pasta in cold water stops the cooking process and helps prevent it from becoming mushy. It also cools the pasta quickly for the salad.

How should I store leftovers?

Leftovers should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The salad may become slightly dry as the pasta absorbs the dressing, so you can add a little more dressing before serving.

Large Bowl: Needed for mixing all the ingredients together, making sure the pasta salad is evenly coated with the Catalina dressing and seasoning.

Cooking Pot: Needed for cooking the spaghetti pasta according to the package instructions. Make sure to rinse the cooked pasta with cold water and drain well before adding to the salad.

Cutting Board: Useful for chopping the bell pepper, purple onion, and cherry tomatoes. Make sure to have a sharp knife on hand to efficiently chop the vegetables.

Can Opener: Required to open the can of sliced black olives, so make sure it is in good working order.

Measuring Spoons: Handy for accurately measuring out the salad seasoning and Parmesan cheese. No one wants bland or overly seasoned pasta salad!

Spoons or Tongs: Necessary for mixing the ingredients together in the bowl, evenly distributing the vegetables, dressing, and seasoning throughout the pasta.

Plastic Wrap or a Lid: To cover the bowl before chilling the pasta salad in the refrigerator overnight.

Garlic Bread: because what's a pasta dish without some delicious, garlicky bread on the side?

Grilled Chicken: add some protein to your meal with some juicy, grilled chicken. The smoky char from the grill will add a nice contrast to the cool spaghetti salad, creating a well-rounded and satisfying meal.

Lemon Sorbet: finish off your meal with a refreshing scoop of lemon sorbet. The zesty citrus flavors will cleanse your palate after your savory spaghetti salad.

Wine Pairings
Pinot Grigio: The light, crisp acidity of a Pinot Grigio will complement the fresh vegetables and tangy Catalina dressing in this spaghetti salad.

Chardonnay: A buttery Chardonnay will add a creamy touch to the pasta, balancing out the zesty flavors of the salad.

Sauvignon Blanc: The citrus notes in a Sauvignon Blanc will enhance the bright flavors of the cherry tomatoes and bell peppers in this dish.

Other Alcohol Pairings
Vodka Martini: The clean, smooth taste of a vodka martini will provide a refreshing contrast to the bold flavors in the Catalina spaghetti salad.

Pale Ale: The hoppy bitterness of a pale ale will cut through the richness of the Catalina dressing, making it a perfect match for this dish.

Margarita: The zesty lime and tequila in a classic margarita will add a burst of flavor to the spaghetti salad.

Non-Alcoholic Pairings
Lemonade: The tartness of lemonade will pair beautifully with the cherry tomatoes and black olives, cleansing your palate with each sip.

Iced Green Tea: The earthy notes of green tea will provide a soothing contrast to the bold flavors in the Catalina spaghetti salad.

Sparkling Water with Lemon: The bubbly sparkling water with a hint of lemon will cleanse your palate between each bite of this flavorful salad.