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Fresh Spring Pasta Salad

Fresh Spring Pasta Salad that Brightens Your Plate

A vibrant Fresh Spring Pasta Salad featuring asparagus and peas, perfect for any occasion.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Resting Time 10 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Salads
Cuisine: American
Calories: 250

Ingredients
  

For the Salad
  • 8 oz short sturdy pasta (fusilli or rotini) Substitute gluten-free pasta for a gluten-free option.
  • 1 bunch asparagus Fresh is best, but frozen works if thawed and patted dry.
  • 1 cup frozen peas Can substitute blanched green beans or snap peas.
For the Vinaigrette
  • 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice Start with less to adjust to your taste.
  • 4 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil Choose high-quality for the best flavor.
  • 2 tbsp fresh dill Use dried dill sparingly as a substitute if unavailable.
  • to taste salt
  • to taste pepper
Optional Add-Ins
  • 1 cup feta or goat cheese Adds creaminess to the salad.
  • 1 cup grilled chicken or chickpeas Adds extra protein.

Equipment

  • Large Pot
  • Colander
  • Medium mixing bowl
  • large salad bowl
  • whisk

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, about 8-10 minutes.
  2. Drain the pasta and rinse under cold water to halt cooking. Allow to cool completely.
  3. In a separate pot, bring water to a boil, add salt, then add asparagus and blanch for 2-3 minutes.
  4. Drain asparagus and rinse under cold water, then set aside.
  5. In a mixing bowl, combine lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Whisk until emulsified.
  6. In a large bowl, combine cooled pasta, asparagus, and thawed peas. Toss gently.
  7. Pour the vinaigrette over the salad and toss to coat evenly.
  8. Allow the salad to rest for at least 10 minutes before serving.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 250kcalCarbohydrates: 40gProtein: 8gFat: 9gSaturated Fat: 1gPolyunsaturated Fat: 3gMonounsaturated Fat: 5gCholesterol: 5mgSodium: 200mgPotassium: 400mgFiber: 5gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 1200IUVitamin C: 30mgCalcium: 80mgIron: 2mg

Notes

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Add a splash of olive oil when reheating to brighten flavors.

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