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Asparagus Pasta Salad

Asparagus Pasta Salad
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Asparagus Pasta Salad is a vibrant, fresh, and light summer dish combining tender asparagus, al dente pasta, cherry tomatoes, fresh herbs, and a zesty lemon-olive oil dressing. Perfect for picnics, potlucks, or family dinners, it offers a colorful, satisfying meal that’s quick to prepare, highly customizable, and full of seasonal flavors.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 1 bunch asparagus, trimmed and cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 8 oz short pasta (penne, farfalle, or rotini)
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1/4 cup fresh herbs (basil, parsley, or dill), chopped
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

Dressing

  • 3 tbsp olive oil
  • 2 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice
  • Salt, to taste
  • Freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Optional Add-Ins and Variations

  • Sliced bell peppers, radishes, or cucumber for extra crunch
  • Grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas for added protein
  • Nutritional yeast as a dairy-free alternative to Parmesan
  • 1 tsp Dijon mustard or balsamic vinegar as alternative dressing options
  • Toasted pine nuts or walnuts for nutty crunch

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Pasta: Cook the short pasta in salted boiling water according to package instructions until al dente, ensuring it is tender but still firm. Drain and set aside.
  2. Blanch the Asparagus: Trim and cut asparagus into bite-sized pieces. Boil for 2-3 minutes until crisp-tender, then immediately plunge into ice water to preserve bright green color and crunch. Drain well.
  3. Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, toss together the drained pasta, blanched asparagus, halved cherry tomatoes, chopped fresh herbs, and any optional add-ins such as cheese or nuts.
  4. Make the Dressing: Whisk together olive oil, freshly squeezed lemon juice, salt, and pepper in a small bowl until well combined to create a vibrant dressing.
  5. Toss and Chill: Pour the dressing over the pasta mixture and toss gently but thoroughly to coat all ingredients. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld before serving.

Notes

  • Cook pasta al dente to prevent mushiness and ensure a satisfying texture.
  • Shock asparagus in ice water after boiling to lock in color and crunch.
  • Use fresh herbs like basil or parsley rather than dried for optimal flavor.
  • Season gradually with salt and pepper, adjusting after mixing to avoid over-seasoning.
  • Chill the salad before serving to let the flavors blend beautifully and improve texture.

Nutrition

Keywords: asparagus pasta salad, summer salad, pasta salad recipe, fresh asparagus recipe, light pasta salad, vegetarian summer dish

Find it online: https://dailydishez.com/asparagus-pasta-salad/