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Asparagus Pasta Salad

Asparagus Pasta Salad
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Fresh and vibrant Asparagus Pasta Salad perfect for spring, combining tender asparagus, al dente pasta, cherry tomatoes, red onion, and creamy feta cheese with a zesty lemon garlic dressing. This light yet satisfying dish is quick to prepare, colorful, and adaptable for picnics, potlucks, or weeknight dinners.

Ingredients

Scale

Vegetables & Pasta

  • 1 lb fresh asparagus, trimmed and cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 8 oz short pasta (penne, fusilli, or farfalle)
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced

Dressing

  • 3 tbsp fresh lemon juice
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste

Cheese & Herbs

  • 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
  • 2 tbsp fresh parsley or basil, chopped

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process. Set aside to cool completely.
  2. Blanch the Asparagus: Trim tough ends off the asparagus and cut into bite-sized pieces. Blanch in boiling water for 2-3 minutes until bright green and tender-crisp, then immediately transfer to an ice bath to maintain freshness and color.
  3. Make the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together fresh lemon juice, minced garlic, olive oil, salt, and pepper. This dressing brightens the salad and brings the flavors together.
  4. Combine the Ingredients: In a large bowl, gently toss the cooled pasta, asparagus pieces, halved cherry tomatoes, thinly sliced red onion, and crumbled feta. Drizzle the dressing over and toss to coat evenly.
  5. Add Fresh Herbs and Serve: Finish with chopped fresh parsley or basil for aroma and freshness. Adjust seasoning if needed. Serve immediately or chill for flavors to meld.

Notes

  • Don’t overcook asparagus; blanch quickly to keep texture and bright color.
  • Use cold water after boiling to stop cooking pasta and asparagus for the perfect bite.
  • Toss pasta with dressing when warm for better absorption or chill for a refreshing salad.
  • Adjust salt carefully as feta cheese adds natural saltiness.
  • Salad tastes better after resting at least an hour, making it ideal for meal prep.

Nutrition

Keywords: asparagus pasta salad, spring salad, easy pasta salad, healthy pasta salad, vegetarian pasta salad, gluten-free pasta salad

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