Asian Summer Pasta Salad Recipe

Escape the heat with this vibrant and refreshing Asian Summer Pasta Salad! This easy recipe is perfect for a light lunch or supper, ready in under 30 minutes. Customize it with grilled chicken, crispy bacon, or succulent shrimp for a heartier meal. The perfect blend of sweet, savory, and tangy flavors will leave you wanting more! #asiansalad #pastasalad #summersalad #easyrecipe #quickrecipe #lunchideas #dinnerideas

Prep Time 15 mins
Cook Time 24 mins
Calories 266.1 kcal
Protein 13g
Rating 4.2 (6 Reviews)
Asian Summer Pasta Salad

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Recipe Author

Chef Forktionary, author of this recipe

Passionate home cook & Forktionary contributor.

Ingredients for Asian Summer Pasta Salad

  • Cooked Spaghetti
  • Carrot
  • Zucchini
  • Bell Pepper
  • Green Onion
  • Cooked Chicken
  • 1/4 cup vegetable oil
  • 1/4 cup rice wine vinegar
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon sugar
  • Ground Red Pepper
  • Gingerroot
  • Garlic Clove
  • Peanuts
  • Fresh Cilantro

How to Make Asian Summer Pasta Salad

  1. Cook 1 pound spaghetti according to package directions, breaking it into thirds before adding to boiling water for even cooking.
  2. Drain the spaghetti and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process. Set aside to cool completely.
  3. While the pasta cooks, prepare the vegetables. Chop 1 cup of bell peppers (any color), 1/2 cup red onion, and 1 cup of shredded carrots.
  4. In a large bowl, combine the cooled spaghetti, bell peppers, red onion, and carrots.
  5. In a small bowl, whisk together 1/4 cup vegetable oil, 1/4 cup rice wine vinegar, 2 tablespoons soy sauce, 1 tablespoon sugar, 1/2 teaspoon black pepper, 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger, and 1 clove minced garlic.
  6. Pour the dressing over the pasta and vegetables.
  7. Gently toss to coat everything evenly.
  8. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to meld. This step is crucial for the best taste!
  9. Garnish with 1/4 cup chopped peanuts or cashews and 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro before serving.

Chef's Tip for Extra Flavor

Want to unlock deeper, more complex flavors? Try toasting your whole spices before grinding them, or blooming ground spices in a little warm oil to enhance their aroma. Deglazing your pan with a bit of stock, wine, or even water after browning ingredients can capture those tasty caramelized bits, adding richness to your dish.

Nutrition Information (Approximate per serving)

Sodium

21 g

Sugar

13g

Fat

13g

Carbs

5g