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–+ servings
Spring Pasta Salad

Vibrant Spring Pasta Salad with Zesty Vinaigrette Bliss

A refreshing Spring Pasta Salad bursting with vibrant flavors, perfect for picnics and weeknight dinners.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Chill Time 30 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Salads
Cuisine: American
Calories: 350
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Salad
  • 8 oz Pasta Whole grain or gluten-free optional.
  • 1 Juice & Zest Lemon Can swap with lime.
  • 2 cups Cherry Tomatoes Any small tomato variety.
  • 1 medium Red Onion Can opt for sweet onion.
  • 1 can Artichokes Fresh artichokes for an elevated version.
  • 1 cup Walnuts Pecans or sunflower seeds can be used.
  • 1 bunch Asparagus Blanched green beans can substitute.
  • 4 oz Feta Cheese Vegan feta or omit for dairy-free.
  • 1 cup Microgreens Kale or spinach can be substituted.
For the Lemony Caper & Shallot Vinaigrette
  • 1 Juice & Zest Lemon For a floral note.
  • 1/4 cup Avocado Oil Extra virgin olive oil is an alternative.
  • 2 tbsp Capers Optional for a milder vinaigrette.
  • 1 medium Shallot Chives can be swapped if preferred.
  • 1/4 cup Olive Oil Replace with avocado oil for lighter.
  • 1 tbsp Dijon Mustard Yellow mustard can be used.
  • 1 tbsp Honey Maple syrup for a vegan alternative.
  • 2 tbsp Red Wine Vinegar Balsamic vinegar is an alternative.
  • to taste Salt & Pepper Essential seasonings to elevate flavor.

Equipment

  • Pot
  • Mixing bowl
  • whisk

Method
 

Preparation Steps
  1. Prepare the Pasta: Boil salted water, add pasta, and cook for 8-10 minutes until al dente. Drain and rinse with cold water.
  2. Make the Vinaigrette: Combine lemon juice and zest, avocado oil, capers, shallots, olive oil, Dijon mustard, honey, and red wine vinegar in a mixing bowl. Whisk together and season with salt and pepper.
  3. Combine Salad Ingredients: Mix cooled pasta with cherry tomatoes, diced red onion, artichokes, walnuts, and asparagus. Crumble feta and add microgreens.
  4. Dress the Salad: Drizzle vinaigrette over salad and toss gently until well-coated.
  5. Serve or Store: Enjoy immediately or chill for 30 minutes. Store dressing separately if keeping for later.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 10gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 3gPolyunsaturated Fat: 5gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 15mgSodium: 500mgPotassium: 300mgFiber: 4gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 30mgCalcium: 150mgIron: 2mg

Notes

For best results, cool pasta completely and dress salad just before serving. Fresh seasonal ingredients enhance flavors and nutrition.

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