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Springtime Pasta Salad

Refreshing Springtime Pasta Salad for Perfect Picnic Bites

A vibrant and flavorful Springtime Pasta Salad packed with fresh ingredients, perfect for picnics and gatherings.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Resting Time 10 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Salads
Cuisine: American
Calories: 300

Ingredients
  

For the Salad
  • 1 lb spiral pasta of choice A gluten-free pasta can easily replace it.
  • 2 tbsp sea salt Enhances the flavor of the pasta as it cooks.
  • 1 large English cucumber Adds a great crunch.
  • 3 cups tear drop tomatoes They provide a burst of sweetness.
  • 1 can whole olives (drained) Kalamata olives add a stronger flavor.
  • 3/4 cup red onion Provides a sharp bite.
  • 1 cup mini sweet bell peppers Adds vibrant color and sweetness.
  • 5 cups broccoli florets Contributes wonderful texture and nutrition.
  • 1 bunch asparagus (cut into thirds) Adds freshness and tenderness.
For the Vinaigrette
  • 3/4 cup extra virgin olive oil Forms the dressing base.
  • 3 large lemons (juiced) Provides refreshing acidity.
  • 3-4 large garlic cloves (minced) Infuses the salad with aromatic flavor.
  • 1 tbsp dried dill Adds a delightful herby touch.
  • 2 tsp salt Essential for seasoning.

Equipment

  • large pot
  • colander
  • Mixing Bowl
  • small saucepan
  • Spatula

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Cook the pasta: Bring water to a boil, add sea salt, and cook the pasta until al dente, about 8 to 10 minutes. Drain in a colander.
  2. Prepare the broccoli: Wash and chop broccoli into bite-sized florets. Use the colander to blanch broccoli with hot pasta water.
  3. Make the vinaigrette: In a bowl, combine olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, dill, and salt. Whisk until emulsified.
  4. Blanch the asparagus: Boil water, add asparagus, and blanch for 2 to 4 minutes before draining and adding to vinaigrette.
  5. Chop the remaining vegetables: Dice cucumber, halve tomatoes, slice onion, and drain olives.
  6. Combine everything: Add cooled pasta, vinaigrette, asparagus, and chopped veggies into a bowl. Mix gently.
  7. Let flavors meld: Cover the salad and let sit at room temperature for at least 10 minutes.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 300kcalCarbohydrates: 40gProtein: 6gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 2gPolyunsaturated Fat: 3gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gSodium: 400mgPotassium: 500mgFiber: 5gSugar: 4gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 60mgCalcium: 40mgIron: 1mg

Notes

Use fresh ingredients for the best flavor. This salad is adaptable for different vegetables and can be stored in an airtight container for 2-3 days.

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