Asparagus Pasta Salad With A Creamy Lemon Dressing Recipe

Craving a vibrant and refreshing pasta salad? This Asparagus Pasta Salad with Creamy Lemon Dressing is your answer! A delightful twist on a classic, this quick and easy recipe features tender asparagus tossed in a zesty, light lemon sauce. Ready in just 35 minutes, it's the perfect light yet satisfying weeknight dinner. Serve alongside grilled fish or chicken for a complete and elegant meal.

Prep Time 15 mins
Cook Time 35 mins
Calories 289.8 kcal
Protein 20g
Rating 3.6 (7 Reviews)
Asparagus Pasta Salad With A Creamy Lemon Dressing

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Recipe Author

Chef Forktionary, author of this recipe

Passionate home cook & Forktionary contributor.

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

  1. Cook pasta according to package directions. Drain and rinse with cold water to cool.
  2. 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.
  3. 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.
  4. Add the cooked pasta and asparagus to the lemon dressing. Toss gently to combine.
  5. Add 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved, and 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley. Toss again to combine.
  6. 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