Description
A refreshing green goddess pasta salad packed with vibrant veggies and a creamy dressing, perfect for a vegetarian meal.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 pound cooked pasta, any short pasta
- 1 pint halved cherry tomatoes, bright and firm
- 2 cups arugula, fresh and vibrant
- 1 cup shelled sugar snap peas, fresh and bright green
- 1 bunch asparagus, trimmed and cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1/4 cup thinly sliced green onions, crisp
- 1 cup toasted pine nuts, toasted in a dry pan
- 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese, freshly grated or pre-grated
- 1 1/2 cups green goddess dressing, homemade or store-bought
- Fresh basil for garnish, vibrant leaves
Instructions
- Prepare the Dressing: Start by whisking together all the dressing ingredients in a bowl until smooth and vibrant. This creamy dressing gives the salad its signature flavor. Be cautious not to overmix, or it may become too thick.
- Cook the Pasta: Boil a big pot of water and add your pasta until it is al dente, feeling firm yet tender. This step is crucial for the right texture in your salad. Keep an eye on it to prevent mushiness.
- Toss in the Veggies: Once the pasta is cooled down, toss in your chopped veggies and fresh herbs. You will see a colorful mix that smells great. This adds crunch and freshness to each bite. Ensure everything is evenly distributed for a well-rounded flavor.
- Add the Dressing: Pour your prepared dressing over the pasta and veggies, giving it a gentle mix. You want everything coated nicely without breaking apart the pasta. If it seems too dry, a splash of extra dressing can help.
- Chill & Serve: Let the salad chill in the fridge for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to mingle. To enjoy the freshest flavors, serve immediately after preparation. If you prepare in advance, keep the arugula and tomatoes separate until serving for added crispness.
Notes
- Storage Tips: Store pasta salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
- Expert Tips: Ensure pasta is cooked al dente to maintain firmness. If the dressing is too thick after refrigeration, thin it with a small splash of water or vinegar before serving. For added moisture if the salad feels dry after storage, add more dressing before serving.
- Serving Suggestions: Pair with grilled chicken or salmon for added protein. Serve with crusty bread for a complete meal. Top with extra herbs and cheese for added flavor.
- Recipe Variations: Add cooked shrimp or chicken for protein. Swap out pine nuts for walnuts or almonds. Mix in olives or feta cheese for extra flavor.
- Ingredient Notes: Choose bright, firm cherry tomatoes for best flavor. Look for fresh arugula for its peppery kick. Select crisp green onions and vibrant basil leaves for optimal freshness.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 498
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 653mg
- Fat: 39g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 0g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 11g
- Cholesterol: 23mg