Asparagus Pasta Salad with Italian Dressing
Experience the vibrant flavors of our Asparagus Pasta Salad with Italian Dressing, a quick and easy dish that’s perfect for any occasion. This colorful salad features tender asparagus, juicy tomatoes, and a zesty homemade dressing that elevates it from ordinary to extraordinary. Ready in just 27 minutes, this nutritious salad shines as a light weeknight dinner or a delightful addition to potlucks and picnics. You can easily customize it with your favorite vegetables or proteins like grilled chicken, making it a versatile option for everyone to enjoy.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Total Time: 27 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6
- Category: Side
- Method: Boiling
- Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 pound asparagus
- 2 1/2 cups uncooked pasta (penne or rotini)
- 2/3 cup sliced red onions
- 1 1/2 cups diced tomatoes
- 1/3 cup red apple vinegar
- 2 teaspoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 1 1/2 teaspoons minced garlic
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 2 teaspoons dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1/2 cup extra-virgin olive oil
Instructions
- Cook the pasta in salted boiling water until al dente; drain and rinse under cold water.
- Blanch asparagus in boiling water for 2-3 minutes until bright green; cool in ice water.
- Whisk together dressing ingredients in a mixing bowl.
- In a large bowl, combine cooked pasta, asparagus, red onions, and tomatoes. Toss with dressing.
- Let sit for at least 10 minutes before serving.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 180mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 16g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 34g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 7g
- Cholesterol: 6mg