Spring Pasta Salad: A Refreshing Dish for the Season
Spring is in the air, and it’s the perfect time to bring light, fresh, and colorful dishes to your table. Spring pasta salad is a versatile and crowd-pleasing recipe that combines fresh veggies, herbs, and a zesty dressing with perfectly cooked pasta. Whether you’re hosting a picnic, a brunch, or simply want a quick meal, this dish is your go-to option.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and easy to prepare
- Bursting with seasonal vegetables
- Perfect for meal prep and leftovers
- Customizable to fit dietary preferences
Let’s dive into the details and create this vibrant spring pasta salad!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s what you’ll need to make a delicious spring pasta salad:
Pasta
- Penne, rotini, or bow tie pasta: These shapes hold the dressing well and add texture to the salad.
Fresh Veggies (Spring Stars!)
- Asparagus (blanched)
- Cherry tomatoes (halved)
- Snap peas (sliced diagonally)
- Radishes (thinly sliced)
- Cucumber (diced)
Herbs and Add-Ons
- Fresh basil and mint for a burst of flavor
- Feta cheese or mozzarella balls for creaminess (optional)
- Toasted nuts like almonds or pine nuts for crunch
Dressing
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tbsp lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
- 1 clove garlic (minced)
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tsp honey or maple syrup
- Salt and pepper to taste
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook your pasta until al dente, following the package instructions. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process.
Pro Tip: Toss the pasta with a drizzle of olive oil after rinsing to prevent it from sticking together.
2. Prep the Veggies
- Blanch asparagus in boiling water for 2 minutes, then transfer it to an ice bath to retain its bright green color.
- Chop the remaining veggies into bite-sized pieces.
3. Make the Dressing
Whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, Dijon mustard, honey, salt, and pepper in a small bowl until emulsified.
Pro Tip: Taste the dressing before tossing it with the salad—adjust the acidity or sweetness to your liking.
4. Assemble the Salad
In a large mixing bowl, combine the pasta, veggies, herbs, and cheese. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss until everything is evenly coated.
5. Chill and Serve
Refrigerate the salad for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors meld together. Serve chilled or at room temperature.
Variations to Try
- Make it vegan: Skip the cheese and honey, and use maple syrup or agave instead.
- Add protein: Grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas make great additions.
- Swap the dressing: Try a balsamic vinaigrette or a creamy avocado dressing for a different flavor profile.
Serving Suggestions
Spring pasta salad pairs wonderfully with:
- Grilled meats or seafood
- A loaf of crusty bread
- A refreshing glass of iced tea or lemonade
Storing Tips
This salad keeps well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just give it a quick toss before serving to redistribute the dressing.
Enjoy this vibrant spring pasta salad as a refreshing addition to your seasonal menu! Share it with friends and family, or keep it all to yourself—it’s that good.
