Pasta Verde Salad

Pasta Verde Salad Recipe - Vegetarian Broccoli and Asparagus Pasta Salad

Preparation time: 20 minutes | Cooking time: 15 minutes | Servings: 4 |

Vegetarian diet

Introduction

Pasta Verde Salad is a refreshing and vibrant dish that is perfect for a light lunch or as a side dish for a summer barbecue. This salad is packed with fresh vegetables and tossed in a flavorful "Super" salad dressing, making it a healthy and delicious option for any occasion.

History

Pasta Verde Salad is a modern twist on traditional pasta salad recipes. The addition of fresh vegetables and a zesty dressing gives this dish a unique and refreshing flavor profile. This recipe is a great way to incorporate more vegetables into your diet while still enjoying a classic pasta dish.

Ingredients

2 cups small broccoli florets
2 cups cut asparagus (1 inch pieces)
1 cup diagonally sliced carrots (0.5 inch pieces)
0.5 cup diced onion
2 cups dried medium pasta shells (5 oz (142 g))
0.75 cup "Super" green dressing (Vegetarian Times, August 2000, page 49) (or other salad dressing)
1 large tomato, quartered, seeded and cut lengthwise into thin strips

How to prepare

Bring a large pot of lightly salted water to a boil.
Fill a large bowl with ice water.
Add broccoli, asparagus, carrots, and onion to the boiling water and cook until just tender, about 3 minutes.
Using a slotted spoon, transfer the vegetables to the ice water, drain well, and set aside.
Keep the water at a boil.
Add pasta to the boiling water and stir to prevent sticking.
Cook the pasta until just tender, about 8 minutes.
Drain the pasta, rinse it under cold running water, and drain well.
In a large serving bowl, combine the cooked vegetables and pasta.
Add the dressing and toss to coat.
Add the tomato strips and toss again.

Variations

Add grilled shrimp or chicken for a protein boost.
Substitute the "Super" salad dressing with a homemade vinaigrette for a lighter option.
Mix in some fresh herbs like basil or parsley for added flavor.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to cook the vegetables until just tender to maintain their crisp texture.

- Rinse the pasta under cold water after cooking to prevent it from sticking together.

- Toss the salad with the dressing just before serving to ensure that the flavors are well distributed.

- Feel free to customize this recipe with your favorite vegetables or protein options.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Pasta Verde Salad as a side dish with grilled chicken or fish for a complete meal. It also pairs well with a glass of white wine or a refreshing iced tea.

Cooking Techniques

Blanching the vegetables helps to retain their vibrant color and crisp texture.

- Tossing the salad with the dressing just before serving ensures that the flavors are well distributed.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use any type of pasta shape you prefer, such as penne or fusilli.

- Swap out the vegetables for your favorites, such as bell peppers or zucchini.

Make Ahead Tips

Pasta Verde Salad can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Just be sure to toss it with the dressing right before serving to prevent it from becoming soggy.

Presentation Ideas

Garnish the Pasta Verde Salad with fresh herbs or a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese for a beautiful and flavorful finishing touch.

Pairing Recommendations

This salad pairs well with a variety of dishes, such as grilled chicken, fish, or tofu. It also goes well with a side of garlic bread or a simple green salad.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, simply microwave the salad for a few minutes or enjoy it cold.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

250

Carbohydrates

- Total Carbohydrates: 35g

- Dietary Fiber: 4g

- Sugars: 5g

Fats

- Total Fat: 8g

- Saturated Fat: 1g

- Trans Fat: 0g

Proteins

- Protein: 6g

Vitamins and minerals

Vitamin A: 50% DV

- Vitamin C: 30% DV

- Calcium: 4% DV

- Iron: 10% DV

Alergens

Contains wheat and soy

Summary

Pasta Verde Salad is a nutritious dish that is rich in vitamins and minerals. It is a great source of fiber and protein, making it a satisfying and healthy meal option.

Summary

Pasta Verde Salad is a delicious and nutritious dish that is perfect for any occasion. Packed with fresh vegetables and tossed in a flavorful dressing, this salad is sure to be a hit with your family and friends. Enjoy this vibrant and refreshing dish as a light lunch or as a side dish at your next gathering.

How did I get this recipe?

The first time I saw this recipe, I was immediately hooked. It was a warm summer day and I was browsing through a cookbook that my dear friend had given me as a gift. The pages were filled with colorful images of delicious dishes, but one recipe in particular caught my eye - Pasta Verde Salad.

As I read through the ingredients and instructions, I could already imagine the flavors and textures coming together in perfect harmony. The combination of pasta, fresh herbs, vegetables, and a zesty dressing sounded like the perfect dish to enjoy on a hot summer day.

I decided to give the recipe a try and headed to the grocery store to gather all the necessary ingredients. As I walked through the aisles, I could feel my excitement growing. I picked out the freshest produce and the best quality pasta I could find, knowing that these ingredients would make all the difference in the final dish.

Once I got home, I wasted no time in getting started. I boiled the pasta until it was al dente, then drained it and let it cool. While the pasta was cooking, I chopped up an assortment of fresh herbs - basil, parsley, and mint - and tossed them together in a bowl with some cherry tomatoes and sliced cucumbers.

Next, I whisked together a simple dressing of olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and a touch of honey. The aroma of the fresh herbs and citrus filled my kitchen, making my mouth water in anticipation.

I combined the cooled pasta with the herb and vegetable mixture, then poured the dressing over the top. I gently tossed everything together, making sure that each piece of pasta was coated in the flavorful dressing.

Finally, I plated the Pasta Verde Salad and garnished it with some crumbled feta cheese and a sprinkle of toasted pine nuts. The colors of the dish were vibrant and inviting, and I couldn't wait to dig in.

As I took my first bite, I was immediately transported to a place of pure culinary bliss. The flavors were bright and fresh, with the herbs and vegetables providing a burst of freshness that was perfectly complemented by the tangy dressing. The feta added a creamy richness, while the pine nuts added a satisfying crunch.

I knew right then and there that this recipe would become a staple in my repertoire. It was simple to make, yet packed with complex flavors and textures that made it a true standout dish.

Over the years, I have made the Pasta Verde Salad countless times, each time adding my own little twist to the recipe. Sometimes I'll throw in some roasted red peppers or grilled chicken for added protein, or switch up the herbs depending on what I have on hand.

But no matter how I choose to make it, the Pasta Verde Salad always brings a smile to my face and a sense of satisfaction to my soul. It's a dish that reminds me of lazy summer days spent in the kitchen, creating something delicious to share with my loved ones.

And as I sit here, penning this story and reminiscing about all the memories I've made with this recipe, I can't help but feel grateful for the gift of cooking and the joy it has brought me over the years. Cooking has always been a way for me to express my creativity and connect with others, and the Pasta Verde Salad is a perfect example of that.

So here's to many more years of cooking, experimenting, and sharing delicious meals with those I love. And who knows, maybe one day I'll pass this recipe down to my own grandchildren, just like my friend did for me. Until then, I'll continue to cherish each and every bite of this pasta verde salad, savoring the flavors and memories that it brings with each delicious forkful.