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Lemony Spring Pasta Salad

Bright and Zesty Lemony Spring Pasta Salad for Fresh Flavor

This Lemony Spring Pasta Salad features gluten-free pasta and vibrant vegetables, all tossed in a zesty lemon vinaigrette for a refreshing dish.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Salads
Cuisine: American
Calories: 300

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta
  • 8 ounces gluten-free brown rice rotini
For the Vegetables
  • 1 cup zucchini, diced
  • 1 cup asparagus, trimmed and cut
For the Cheese
  • 1 cup feta cheese, crumbled or vegan feta for a dairy-free option
For the Greens
  • 2 cups arugula or spinach for a different vibe
For the Dressing
  • 1 large lemon, juiced and zested preferably fresh
  • 3 tablespoons olive oil or avocado oil as an alternative
  • 1 tablespoon honey or cane sugar or maple syrup for a vegan option
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
For the Finishing Touch
  • 1/4 cup pine nuts, toasted or walnuts for a different flavor

Equipment

  • Large Pot
  • Skillet
  • mixing bowl
  • Serving bowl

Method
 

Cooking Instructions
  1. Cook the pasta in a large pot of salted boiling water according to package instructions until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool.
  2. In a skillet, heat 1/2 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Sauté asparagus for 3-5 minutes until bright green and tender-crisp. Remove and set aside.
  3. Add another 1/2 tablespoon of oil to the skillet. Sauté zucchini for about 2 minutes on each side until golden-brown. Set aside to cool.
  4. In a mixing bowl, whisk together lemon juice and zest, olive oil, honey or sugar, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper to create the vinaigrette.
  5. In a large serving bowl, combine cooled pasta, sautéed asparagus, zucchini, arugula, and feta cheese. Drizzle with vinaigrette and gently toss.
  6. Sprinkle with toasted pine nuts and garnish with fresh basil if desired. Serve fresh or chill for enhanced flavors.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 300kcalCarbohydrates: 36gProtein: 9gFat: 14gSaturated Fat: 3gPolyunsaturated Fat: 4gMonounsaturated Fat: 6gCholesterol: 15mgSodium: 450mgPotassium: 400mgFiber: 5gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 800IUVitamin C: 25mgCalcium: 200mgIron: 2mg

Notes

This pasta salad can be made ahead and stored in the fridge for up to 3 days, enhancing the flavors as it sits.

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