Spring Delight: Lemon Asparagus Pasta Salad

Spring is the perfect time to enjoy nature’s fresh, vibrant flavors, and what better way to do so than with a zesty Lemon Asparagus Pasta Salad? This dish is visually appealing and packs a punch of nutrition and flavor. It’s quick to prepare, making it an ideal choice for springtime picnics, lunches, and light dinners.

Ingredients:

• Pasta: 1 pound of your favorite pasta (penne or fusilli works great)
• Asparagus: 1 bunch (about 1 pound), trimmed and cut into 1-inch pieces
• Cherry Tomatoes: 1 cup, halved
• Red Onion: 1 small, finely chopped
• Feta Cheese: ½ cup crumbled
• Lemon Zest: From 1 lemon
• Lemon Juice: ¼ cup fresh
• Olive Oil: ¼ cup extra-virgin
• Garlic: 2 cloves, minced
• Dijon Mustard: 1 tablespoon
• Honey: 1 teaspoon
• Salt and Pepper: To taste
• Fresh Basil: A handful, chopped
• Pine Nuts: ¼ cup, toasted (optional)

Instructions:

1. Cook Pasta:
   • Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside to cool.
2. Blanch Asparagus:
   • In the same pot, bring water to a boil again. Blanch the asparagus pieces for about 2-3 minutes until they are bright green and tender-crisp. Drain and immerse in ice water to stop the cooking process. Drain again.
3. Prepare the Dressing:
   • Whisk together lemon zest, lemon juice, olive oil, minced garlic, Dijon mustard, honey, salt, and pepper in a small bowl.
4. Combine the Salad:
   • Combine the cooled pasta, blanched asparagus, cherry tomatoes, red onion, and crumbled feta cheese in a large mixing bowl. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss to combine.
5. Final Touches:
   • Garnish with fresh basil and toasted pine nuts right before serving.
6. Chill or Serve:
   • Allow the salad to marinate in the fridge for at least an hour before serving or immediately if preferred.

This Lemon Asparagus Pasta Salad is a refreshing mix of tangy, sweet, and savory flavors, perfect for embracing the essence of spring. The crispy asparagus, juicy tomatoes, and robust feta add delightful textures and tastes that pair wonderfully with the lemony dressing.

This salad is a great source of vitamins C and K, fiber, and antioxidants, making it a tasty and healthful choice.