French Pasta Salad

French Pasta Salad Recipe - Vegetarian Salad from France

Region / culture: France | Preparation time: 20 minutes | Cooking time: 25 minutes | Servings: 6 |

Vegetarian diet

Introduction

French Pasta Salad is a delightful and refreshing dish that combines the flavors of pasta, green beans, red peppers, and goat cheese with a tangy vinaigrette dressing. This salad is perfect for a light lunch or as a side dish for a summer barbecue.

History

Pasta salads have been a popular dish in France for many years, with each region putting its own unique twist on the classic recipe. French Pasta Salad typically includes fresh, seasonal ingredients and a flavorful vinaigrette dressing.

Ingredients

0.5 cup hazelnuts (2 oz or 57 g)
1 coarsely chopped
1 lb dried penne or ziti pasta (454 g)
12 oz green beans (340 g), ends trimmed and cut in half
0.67 cup drained chopped jarred pimentos or 1 roasted red pepper
2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
1 tbsp drained capers (optional)
0.5 cup crumbled goat cheese (3 oz or 85 g)

Vinaigrette

0.25 cup extra-virgin olive oil or vegetable oil
0.25 cup red wine vinegar
1 tbsp dijon mustard
1 large shallot, minced
2 tsp chopped fresh tarragon
2 tsp chopped fresh basil
1 tsp salt
0.25 tsp coarsely ground pepper

How to prepare

Preheat the oven to 325°F (163°C).
Spread the hazelnuts in a small baking pan and bake until toasted and fragrant, stirring once, for about 15 minutes.
Allow the hazelnuts to cool slightly.
Rub the hazelnuts briskly in a kitchen towel to remove the skins and set them aside.
Meanwhile, bring a large pot of lightly salted water to a boil.
Add the pasta and stir to prevent sticking.
Cook the pasta until it is just tender, about 8 minutes.
Drain the pasta, rinse it under cold water, and drain it well. Set it aside.
Bring a large saucepan of water to a boil.
Add the green beans and cook them until they are just crisp-tender, about 3 minutes.
Drain the green beans, rinse them under cold water, and drain them well. Set them aside.

Vinaigrette

In a large shallow serving bowl, whisk together all the ingredients.
Add the pasta, green beans, toasted hazelnuts, and pimientos, and toss to combine.
Sprinkle with parsley and capers, if desired.
Scatter the cheese around the edge of the salad.
Serve the salad at room temperature or slightly chilled.

Variations

Add grilled chicken or shrimp for a protein boost.
Substitute feta cheese for the goat cheese for a tangier flavor.
Add sun-dried tomatoes or olives for an extra burst of flavor.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to toast the hazelnuts before adding them to the salad to enhance their flavor.

- Cook the pasta and green beans until they are just tender to ensure they maintain their texture in the salad.

- Allow the salad to sit for a few hours before serving to allow the flavors to meld together.

Serving Suggestions

French Pasta Salad can be served as a main dish for a light lunch or as a side dish for grilled chicken or fish.

Cooking Techniques

Toasting the hazelnuts enhances their flavor.

- Blanching the green beans helps them maintain their vibrant color and crisp texture.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use walnuts or almonds instead of hazelnuts.

- Substitute red bell peppers for the jarred red peppers.

Make Ahead Tips

French Pasta Salad can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Just be sure to toss the salad with the vinaigrette right before serving.

Presentation Ideas

Serve French Pasta Salad in a large shallow bowl and garnish with fresh herbs for a beautiful presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

French Pasta Salad pairs well with a crisp white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers of French Pasta Salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Serve chilled or at room temperature.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of French Pasta Salad contains approximately 380 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of French Pasta Salad contains approximately 45 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of French Pasta Salad contains approximately 18 grams of fat.

Proteins

Each serving of French Pasta Salad contains approximately 12 grams of protein.

Vitamins and minerals

French Pasta Salad is a good source of vitamin C, vitamin A, and iron.

Alergens

French Pasta Salad contains hazelnuts and goat cheese, which may be allergens for some individuals.

Summary

French Pasta Salad is a balanced dish that provides a good mix of carbohydrates, fats, proteins, and essential vitamins and minerals.

Summary

French Pasta Salad is a delicious and nutritious dish that is perfect for a light lunch or as a side dish for a summer meal. With its fresh ingredients and tangy vinaigrette dressing, this salad is sure to be a hit at your next gathering.

How did I get this recipe?

The first time I saw this recipe, I was captivated by it. It was a warm summer day, and I had been invited to a potluck picnic at a friend's house. As I walked into the backyard, I was greeted by a glorious spread of dishes, but one in particular caught my eye - a beautiful bowl of French Pasta Salad.

I had never seen anything quite like it before. The pasta was perfectly cooked, with a delightful blend of vegetables and herbs mixed in. The dressing was light and tangy, with a hint of mustard and garlic. I knew right then and there that I had to learn how to make this dish.

I approached the woman who had brought the salad and asked her for the recipe. She smiled warmly and told me that it had been passed down through her family for generations. She graciously shared the recipe with me, and I eagerly scribbled it down in my notebook.

That evening, I made the French Pasta Salad for my own family. As we sat down to eat, I held my breath, waiting for their reaction. To my delight, they all loved it. My husband even went back for seconds, which was a rare occurrence.

From that moment on, the French Pasta Salad became a staple in our household. I made it for every potluck, picnic, and family gathering. And each time, it received rave reviews.

Over the years, I have made a few tweaks to the original recipe, adding in some of my own favorite ingredients. I have experimented with different types of pasta, vegetables, and dressings, always striving to perfect the dish. But no matter how many variations I have tried, the essence of the French Pasta Salad remains the same - a light, refreshing, and delicious dish that never fails to impress.

I have shared the recipe with friends, neighbors, and even strangers who have tasted it at a party. I have passed it down to my children and grandchildren, who have all learned to make it themselves. And each time I see someone enjoy a mouthful of the French Pasta Salad, I feel a sense of pride and satisfaction.

I may have learned this recipe from a simple potluck picnic, but it has become so much more than that to me. It is a link to the past, a connection to my family's heritage, and a reminder of the joy that good food can bring.

And so, as I stand in my kitchen, preparing another batch of French Pasta Salad, I am filled with gratitude for the woman who first shared the recipe with me. I am grateful for the memories and traditions that this dish represents. And I am grateful for the simple pleasure of cooking and sharing a meal with loved ones.

As I take a bite of the salad, savoring the flavors and textures, I am reminded once again of the power of food to bring people together, to create lasting memories, and to nourish both body and soul. And for that, I am truly thankful.