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Fresh Spring Pasta Salad

Fresh Spring Pasta Salad Bursting with Asparagus Goodness

This Fresh Spring Pasta Salad is a vibrant dish filled with asparagus and peas, perfect as a side or light main dish.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Resting Time 10 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Salads
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 220

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta
  • 12 ounces Pasta opt for gluten-free pasta for a gluten-free option
For the Vegetables
  • 1 cup Asparagus always use fresh for the best results
  • 1/3 cup Peas feel free to use either fresh or frozen
For the Vinaigrette
  • 3 tablespoons Olive Oil light oils can substitute smoothly
  • 1/4 cup Lemon Juice remember, adjust to taste for perfect balance
  • 1 teaspoon Fresh Dill if using dried, go light on it
For Seasoning
  • Salt and Pepper to taste; adjust as needed for that perfect balance

Equipment

  • Large pot
  • Medium bowl
  • Mixing bowl
  • Whisk

Method
 

Cooking and Assembly Instructions
  1. Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente, typically 8-10 minutes. Once cooked, reserve about a cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta and rinse it under cold water until chilled.
  2. While the pasta cools, trim the woody ends off the asparagus and bring another pot of water to boil. Add the asparagus and blanch for 1-2 minutes, until they turn vibrant green and feel tender-crisp. Immediately transfer them to a bowl filled with ice water to halt cooking.
  3. In a medium bowl, combine the olive oil, lemon juice, and fresh dill. Whisk these ingredients together vigorously for about 30 seconds until they form a smooth emulsion. Season your vinaigrette with salt and pepper to taste.
  4. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta, blanched asparagus, and peas. Gently fold everything together.
  5. Pour the vinaigrette over the pasta and vegetable mixture, making sure to cover everything evenly. Toss gently for about 1 minute.
  6. Allow the salad to rest for at least 10 minutes before serving.

Nutrition

Serving: 1bowlCalories: 220kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 6gFat: 10gSaturated Fat: 1gPolyunsaturated Fat: 3gMonounsaturated Fat: 6gSodium: 300mgPotassium: 300mgFiber: 4gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 20IUVitamin C: 40mgCalcium: 4mgIron: 10mg

Notes

For best results, add vinaigrette just before serving to maintain freshness. Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

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