Asparagus Pasta Salad With Parmesan Dressing Recipe

This vibrant Asparagus Pasta Salad is the perfect make-ahead dish for your next luncheon, potluck, or summer gathering! Tender pasta tossed with crisp-tender asparagus, crunchy almonds, and a creamy, dreamy Parmesan dressing. The flavors meld beautifully as it chills, resulting in a refreshing and utterly delicious salad that will impress your guests. Get ready for rave reviews!

Prep Time 30 mins
Cook Time 120 mins
Calories 374.8 kcal
Protein 23g
Rating 5.0 (2 Reviews)
Asparagus Pasta Salad With Parmesan Dressing

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Recipe Author

Chef Forktionary, author of this recipe

Passionate home cook & Forktionary contributor.

Ingredients for Asparagus Pasta Salad With Parmesan Dressing

  • Small Shell Pasta
  • 1 pound asparagus spears
  • Red Bell Pepper
  • Fresh Mushrooms
  • Parsley
  • 1/4 cup slivered almonds
  • Fresh Garlic Cloves
  • Anchovy Fillets
  • Dijon Mustard
  • Salt And Pepper
  • Worcestershire Sauce
  • Egg Yolk
  • 2 tablespoons lemon juice
  • White Wine Vinegar
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

How to Make Asparagus Pasta Salad With Parmesan Dressing

  1. Cook 1 pound pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain, rinse with cold water, and set aside.
  2. Steam 1 pound asparagus spears until crisp-tender, about 5-7 minutes. Immediately plunge into an ice bath to stop the cooking process. Drain and pat dry with a paper towel.
  3. In a blender, combine 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, 1/4 cup mayonnaise, 2 tablespoons olive oil, 2 tablespoons lemon juice, 1 clove garlic (minced), 1/4 teaspoon salt, and 1/4 teaspoon black pepper. Blend until smooth and creamy.
  4. In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, asparagus, and Parmesan dressing. Toss gently to coat.
  5. Stir in 1/4 cup slivered almonds.
  6. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours to allow the flavors to meld. Serve chilled and enjoy!

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

8 g

Sugar

14g

Fat

20g

Carbs

10g