Elevate your salad game with our Super Green Pasta Salad: A Vibrant and Nutritious Delight. This dish is a celebration of all things green, combining the hearty texture of pasta with a bounty of fresh, crisp vegetables and a zesty homemade dressing. It's perfect for those seeking a nutritious meal that doesn't skimp on flavor or satisfaction. Whether you're looking for a light lunch, a side dish, or a healthy addition to your picnic basket, this salad is sure to impress with its bright colors, diverse textures, and delicious taste.
Preparation and Cooking Times
- Preparation Time: 20 minutes
- Cooking Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
Servings and Serving Size
- Servings: 6
- Serving Size: 1 cup
Nutritional Information (per serving)
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Protein: 10g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Sodium: 200mg
- Fiber: 5g
- Sugar: 4g
Ingredients
- 450g (1 lb) farfalle (bowtie) pasta
- 150g (5 oz) baby spinach leaves
- 100g (3.5 oz) arugula (rocket)
- 1 small cucumber, thinly sliced
- 1 cup snap peas, halved
- 1 avocado, diced
- 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
- 1/4 cup pine nuts, toasted
- For the Dressing:
- 3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- Salt and pepper to taste
Detailed Method of Preparation
- Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Rinse under cold water and drain well.
- In a large salad bowl, combine the cooked pasta, baby spinach, arugula, cucumber slices, snap peas, diced avocado, and chopped basil.
- To make the dressing, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper in a small bowl until well blended.
- Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently until all ingredients are evenly coated.
- Garnish the salad with toasted pine nuts just before serving.
Tips for Culinary Success
- For an added protein boost, consider incorporating grilled chicken or chickpeas.
- The salad can be customized with other green vegetables like broccoli, asparagus, or green beans.
- To keep the avocado from browning, toss it in a little lemon juice before adding it to the salad.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Can I make this salad ahead of time? Yes, but add the avocado and dressing just before serving to maintain freshness.
- How do I store leftovers? Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
- Can I use a different type of pasta? Absolutely! Feel free to use any pasta shape you prefer.
As you indulge in the Super Green Pasta Salad, let the freshness of each bite invigorate your senses and nourish your body. This salad isn't just a meal; it's a vibrant celebration of health and flavor, designed to bring joy and well-being to your table. May the simplicity and beauty of this dish inspire you to embrace the abundance of nature's bounty in your culinary adventures.