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Fresh Spring Pasta Salad

Fresh Spring Pasta Salad with Zesty Lemon Dill Vinaigrette

A vibrant Fresh Spring Pasta Salad featuring asparagus, peas, and a zesty lemon dill vinaigrette—perfect for any spring gathering.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Resting Time 10 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Uncategorized
Cuisine: American
Calories: 250

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta
  • 8 ounces fusilli pasta or penne, or rotini; consider gluten-free for a satisfying alternative
For the Vegetables
  • 1 cup asparagus fresh; can substitute with fresh green beans
  • 1 cup sweet peas fresh or blanched for best results
For the Vinaigrette
  • 1/4 cup lemon juice or lime juice for a zesty alternative
  • 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil high-quality recommended
  • 1 tablespoon fresh dill or dried dill if unavailable
  • to taste salt
  • to taste pepper

Equipment

  • large pot
  • medium mixing bowl
  • large bowl
  • salad tongs

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, usually around 8-10 minutes. When there are 2-3 minutes left on the pasta, add the asparagus to the pot. Once done, drain the mixture and rinse it under cold water to keep the asparagus vibrant and crisp.
  2. While the pasta and asparagus cool, whip up your zesty lemon dill vinaigrette. In a medium mixing bowl, combine fresh lemon juice, extra virgin olive oil, chopped fresh dill, salt, and pepper. Whisk vigorously for about 30 seconds until emulsified.
  3. In a large bowl, gently mix the cooled pasta and asparagus with the sweet peas, ensuring everything is evenly distributed.
  4. Drizzle the prepared lemon dill vinaigrette over the pasta and veggies. Toss gently until all ingredients are evenly coated.
  5. Let the dressed salad sit for at least 10 minutes before serving. This resting time allows the flavors to meld beautifully.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 250kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 6gFat: 12gSaturated Fat: 1.5gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gSodium: 200mgPotassium: 300mgFiber: 4gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 700IUVitamin C: 15mgCalcium: 25mgIron: 2mg

Notes

For added texture and flavor, consider tossing in nuts or seeds, and store leftovers without vinaigrette to keep fresh longer.

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