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Asparagus Pasta Salad

Creamy Asparagus Pasta Salad for a Bright, Healthy Lunch

Enjoy this vibrant Asparagus Pasta Salad, perfect for healthy meal prep and bursting with flavor for sunny days.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Chilling Time 30 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Salads
Cuisine: American
Calories: 350

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta
  • 8 ounces Short-Cut Pasta Use gluten-free pasta for a gluten-free option
For the Salad
  • 1 bunch Asparagus Fresh asparagus enhances crispness and color
  • 1 cup Peas Fresh or frozen sweet peas can be used
  • 1 cup Radish Provides a crunchy, peppery bite; optional
  • 1/4 cup Parsley Fresh parsley adds flavor; substitute basil if desired
For the Dressing
  • 1 cup Ricotta Cheese Swap with soft tofu for a dairy-free option
  • 1/4 cup Olive Oil Use extra virgin for more flavor
  • 1 lemon Lemon Juice Freshly squeezed for best taste
  • 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder Fresh minced garlic is a great alternative
  • to taste Salt Essential seasoning for flavor
  • to taste Pepper Essential seasoning for flavor

Equipment

  • large pot
  • mixing bowl
  • colander
  • Ice Water Bowl

Method
 

Instructions
  1. Boil salted water in a large pot. Cook short-cut pasta according to package directions until al dente, around 8-10 minutes. Drain and rinse under cold water. Set aside.
  2. In a medium pot of boiling water with salt, blanch asparagus for about 2 minutes until bright green and slightly tender. Transfer to ice water to stop cooking, then drain.
  3. In a mixing bowl, whisk ricotta cheese, olive oil, lemon juice, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until smooth and creamy.
  4. In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked pasta, blanched asparagus, peas, radish, and parsley. Gently fold in the creamy dressing until all ingredients are coated.
  5. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving cold or at room temperature.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 15gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 5gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 30mgSodium: 300mgPotassium: 400mgFiber: 6gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 800IUVitamin C: 25mgCalcium: 200mgIron: 3mg

Notes

This salad can be stored in an airtight container for up to 5 days. For heartier options, consider adding chicken or chickpeas.

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