Spring has sprung, and what better way to celebrate the season's bounty than with a vibrant and delicious pasta salad featuring the fresh, green goodness of asparagus? This recipe is not only incredibly flavorful but also quick and easy to make, perfect for a light lunch, a side dish at a barbecue, or a simple yet satisfying weeknight dinner. It's one of those healthy meals that tastes so good, you won't even believe it's good for you! Get ready to elevate your pasta salad game with this springtime favorite.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound pasta (rotini, farfalle, or your favorite shape)
- 1 pound asparagus, trimmed and cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1/4 cup Kalamata olives, halved
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
For the Dressing:
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 3 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
Instructions:
-
Cook the Pasta: Cook the pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process and prevent sticking. Set aside to cool completely.
-
Blanch the Asparagus: Bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Add the asparagus and cook for 2-3 minutes, or until tender-crisp. Immediately plunge the asparagus into an ice bath to stop the cooking and maintain its vibrant green color. Drain well and set aside.
-
Prepare the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed.
-
Combine the Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, blanched asparagus, cherry tomatoes, red onion, feta cheese, Kalamata olives, and fresh basil.
-
Dress and Serve: Pour the dressing over the pasta salad and toss gently to coat evenly. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve immediately or chill for later. This pasta salad is even better the next day, allowing the flavors to meld together beautifully!
Tips and Variations:
- Add Protein: Boost the protein content by adding grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas.
- Spice it Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the dressing for a little kick.
- Different Herbs: Experiment with different herbs like parsley, oregano, or chives.
- Cheese Alternatives: Substitute the feta with goat cheese, parmesan, or another cheese you enjoy.
- Lemon Zest: Add a teaspoon of lemon zest to the dressing for an extra burst of citrus flavor.
- Make it Vegan: Omit the feta cheese and use a vegan alternative like nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This information is an estimate and may vary based on specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Protein: 10-12g
- Fat: 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: 40-45g
- Fiber: 5-7g
This simple yet elegant pasta salad is a perfect example of easy recipes that deliver big on flavor and nutrition. It's a versatile dish that can be adapted to your liking, making it a go-to recipe for any occasion. This recipe shows that quick dinner ideas can also be healthy and delicious. Enjoy this taste of spring!