Ingredients for Asparagus Pasta Salad With A Creamy Lemon Dressing
- Penne Pasta
- 1 pound asparagus
- Scallion
- Cheddar Cheese
- Kosher Salt
- Lemon
- Mayonnaise
- Chicken Broth
- 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 clove minced garlic
- Ground Black Pepper
How to Make Asparagus Pasta Salad With A Creamy Lemon Dressing
- Cook pasta according to package directions. Drain and rinse with cold water to cool.
- While pasta cooks, snap off the tough ends of 1 pound asparagus and cut into 1-inch pieces. Steam or blanch the asparagus until tender-crisp, about 3-5 minutes. Immediately plunge into ice water to stop cooking and maintain vibrant green color.
- In a large bowl, whisk together 1/4 cup olive oil, 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice, 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese, 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard, 1 clove minced garlic, 1/4 teaspoon salt, and 1/4 teaspoon black pepper.
- Add the cooked pasta and asparagus to the lemon dressing. Toss gently to combine.
- Add 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved, and 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley. Toss again to combine.
- Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Serve immediately or chill for later. Garnish with extra Parmesan cheese and parsley before serving.
Chef's Tip for Extra Flavor
Chef's secret: layers of flavor make a dish truly memorable! Consider what a little extra something could bring – perhaps a touch of acidity like a good vinegar or citrus zest, a hint of smokiness from paprika, a bit of umami from mushrooms or soy sauce, or a sprinkle of toasted nuts for texture. Experiment and taste as you go!
Nutrition Information (Approximate per serving)
Sodium
69 g
Sugar
12g
Fat
13g
Carbs
16g