Pasta Primavera Salad with Lemon Herb Dressing
A vibrant Pasta Primavera Salad bursting with fresh, crisp vegetables and tossed in a zesty Lemon Herb Dressing. This classic Italian-inspired dish is perfect for warm-weather gatherings or a light, refreshing meal.
Equipment
- Large Pot
- Colander
- Mixing bowl
- Whisk
- Chef's Knife
Ingredients
For the Pasta Salad:
- 12 oz penne pasta or any short pasta variety
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes halved
- 1 cup broccoli florets blanched
- 1 small zucchini thinly sliced
- 1 small red bell pepper thinly sliced
- ¼ cup red onion thinly sliced
For the Lemon Herb Dressing:
- ¼ cup extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- 1 tsp lemon zest
- 1 clove garlic minced
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- 2 tbsp fresh basil chopped
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley chopped
Instructions
- Cook the pasta according to package instructions in salted boiling water until al dente (about 8-10 minutes). Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process.
- While the pasta cooks, blanch the broccoli in boiling water for 1 minute, then transfer to an ice bath to retain its bright color and crisp texture.
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, minced garlic, Dijon mustard, salt, and black pepper until emulsified.
- Add the cooked pasta, blanched broccoli, cherry tomatoes, sliced zucchini, red bell pepper, and red onion to a large mixing bowl.
- Pour the lemon herb dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine. Add the chopped basil and parsley for a fresh burst of flavor.
- Let the salad sit for 10 minutes to allow flavors to meld before serving. Serve chilled or at room temperature.
Notes
- For an extra protein boost, add grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas.
- Swap parsley for mint for a different herbaceous twist.
Nutrition
Calories: 468kcalCarbohydrates: 71gProtein: 13gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 2gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gSodium: 326mgPotassium: 497mgFiber: 5gSugar: 6gVitamin A: 1102IUVitamin C: 64mgCalcium: 48mgIron: 2mg
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