Description
Asparagus Pasta Salad is a refreshing and vibrant dish that perfectly captures the essence of spring. This delightful salad features tender asparagus, sweet peas, and crunchy radishes tossed with short-cut pasta and enveloped in a creamy lemon ricotta dressing. It’s a versatile option for any occasion, whether you’re enjoying a picnic, hosting a barbecue, or looking for a light lunch. With its eye-catching colors and fresh flavors, this pasta salad not only tastes great but also makes for an appealing presentation on your table. Plus, it can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge for up to five days, making it ideal for meal prep.
Ingredients
- 1 pound short-cut pasta (rotini, fusilli, penne, or farfalle)
- 1 pound asparagus
- 1 cup frozen peas
- 1 cup radishes
- 1/4 cup ricotta cheese
- 3 tablespoons lemon juice
- Fresh herbs (parsley and dill)
Instructions
- Prepare the dressing by whisking together ricotta cheese, olive oil, garlic, lemon juice, lemon zest, and salt until smooth.
- Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente; drain and cool under cold water.
- Blanch asparagus in boiling water for 2 minutes; add peas for another minute. Transfer to ice water to cool.
- Combine cooled pasta with blanched asparagus and peas, sliced radishes, parsley, and dill in a large bowl.
- Toss with the dressing until well coated; adjust seasoning as needed before serving.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: Blanching and Mixing
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 220mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 10g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
Keywords: Feel free to customize by adding other seasonal vegetables like cherry tomatoes or bell peppers. For added protein, serve alongside grilled chicken or shrimp.