Oh my goodness, let me tell you about this Spring Pasta Salad with Honey Mustard Dressing—it’s like a little burst of sunshine on a plate! 📅 Picture this: it’s a gorgeous spring day, the flowers are blooming, the sun is shining, and you want to eat something light yet satisfying. That’s when this pasta salad comes in. I whip it up almost every spring, and each time, it brings back memories of sunny picnics and potlucks with friends. It’s not just a dish, it’s a celebration of all the fresh flavors of the season!
What I absolutely adore about this recipe is its versatility. You can make it for a weekend barbecue, a quick lunch, or even as a side dish for family dinners. Plus, with a stunning array of fresh veggies and a sweet yet tangy dressing, it’s bound to impress anyone you serve it to. Trust me, there’s really nothing like it!
What’s in Spring Pasta Salad with Honey Mustard Dressing?
– Fusilli or Rotini Pasta: This curly or spiral pasta adds fun texture, and it holds onto the dressing beautifully. Use whole wheat pasta for a nutritious boost!
– Asparagus: Fresh asparagus brings a crisp bite and gorgeous color. You really want to blanch it just enough to keep that bright green pop!
– Cherry Tomatoes: They add a sweet burst that complements the savory flavors wonderfully. Go for the ripest ones you can find.
– Mozzarella Cheese: Cubes of creamy mozzarella make this salad indulgently delightful. Fresh mozzarella works magic if you can find it!
– Green Onions: These provide a mild onion flavor that ties everything together without overpowering it.
– Salt and Pepper: Simple seasonings that make a world of difference.
– Fresh Parsley or Basil: Optional, but highly recommended for that fresh herb goodness on top!
Is Spring Pasta Salad Good for You?
Let’s talk a moment about the health benefits of this colorful dish. The combination of veggies and pasta makes it not just visually appealing, but also nutritious!
– Asparagus: Rich in vitamins A, C, E, and K, this green veggie also provides folate which is key for healthy cell function.
– Cherry Tomatoes: They are known for their lycopene content, which may help protect against certain diseases. Plus, they’ve got that juicy sweetness!
– Olive Oil: A heart-healthy fat that’s loaded with antioxidants! It’s perfect for boosting good cholesterol levels.
Of course, moderation is key. While this salad is full of nutritious ingredients, too much honey or cheese can add extra calories. But hey, a little indulgence is fine now and then, right?
Ingredients
– 8 oz fusilli or rotini pasta
– 1 cup asparagus, trimmed and cut into 2-inch pieces
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1 cup mozzarella cheese, cubed
– 1/4 cup green onions, sliced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or basil for garnish (optional)
Honey Mustard Dressing:
– 2 tbsp honey
– 2 tbsp Dijon mustard
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
This recipe serves about 4 to 6 people, which is perfect if you’re planning a small get-together or just want some leftovers to enjoy throughout the week!
How to Make Spring Pasta Salad with Honey Mustard Dressing?
1. Begin by cooking the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Once cooked, drain and rinse under cold water to cool it down.
2. While the pasta is cooking, bring a small pot of water to a boil and blanch the asparagus pieces for 2-3 minutes until they are bright green and tender-crisp. After blanched, drain and immediately transfer them to a bowl of ice water. This will stop the cooking process. Drain again after a few minutes.
3. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta, blanched asparagus, cherry tomatoes, mozzarella cheese, and green onions. Season the mixture with salt and pepper to taste.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together the honey, Dijon mustard, olive oil, apple cider vinegar, salt, and pepper until smooth and well combined.
5. Drizzle the honey mustard dressing over the pasta salad and toss gently to combine all the ingredients with that lovely dressing.
6. For the best flavor, chill the salad in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes to let those ingredients mingle beautifully.
7. Before serving, give the salad a gentle toss again and garnish with fresh parsley or basil if you like. Enjoy your refreshing Spring Pasta Salad!
Tips & Twists to Elevate Your Salad Game
Okay, so here’s where the fun really begins! You can absolutely take this salad to the next level with a few tweaks:
– **Fans of Protein?** Add some grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas for a heartier meal.
– **If You’re Feeling Adventurous:** Throw in some diced bell peppers, cucumbers, or even some sliced olives for extra flavor.
– **Dressing Known for Their Boldness?** Swap out the honey for maple syrup if you want a different sweet note, or add some fresh lemon juice for zing!
Every time I make this, I find a new favorite twist! I can’t wait for you to try this out. Believe me, your taste buds will thank you! If you give it a whirl, I’d love to hear what you think or any variations you come up with!
