Get ready to elevate your summer dining experience with a mouthwatering Asparagus Tomato Pasta Salad that's not just a dish, but a culinary adventure! Imagine a perfect blend of al dente pasta, crisp asparagus, and juicy cherry tomatoes, all dancing together in a zesty lemon-olive oil dressing. This Italian-inspired recipe is so easy to make, yet so impressive that it'll have your guests wondering if a professional chef secretly prepared it in your kitchen.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 10 mins
Total Time: 20 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 8 ounces pasta (your choice)
- 1 bunch asparagus, trimmed and cut
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, typically 8-10 minutes.
- While pasta is cooking, prepare the asparagus by washing and trimming off the tough woody ends. Cut asparagus into 1-inch diagonal pieces.
- During the last 2-3 minutes of pasta cooking, add the asparagus pieces directly to the boiling water to blanch them lightly.
- Drain the pasta and asparagus in a colander, then immediately rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process and cool the ingredients.
- Halve the cherry tomatoes and set aside. Ensure they are ripe and fresh for the best flavor.
- In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and freshly ground black pepper to create the dressing.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta, blanched asparagus, and cherry tomatoes.
- Pour the prepared dressing over the pasta mixture and gently toss to ensure all ingredients are evenly coated.
- Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld before serving. Can be served chilled or at room temperature.
Tips
- Choose the Right Pasta: Select a shape that holds dressing well, like rotini, penne, or fusilli.
- Don't Overcook: Keep pasta and asparagus crisp by following precise cooking times.
- Chill for Maximum Flavor: Let the salad rest in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow ingredients to marinate.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Ripe cherry tomatoes and crisp asparagus make all the difference.
- Customize Your Salad: Feel free to add protein like grilled chicken or feta cheese for extra flavor.
- Make Ahead: This salad tastes even better the next day, making it perfect for meal prep!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 250kcal
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 8g
Fat: 10g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 0mg
