Summertime calls for light and refreshing meal options that can be enjoyed cold or at room temperature. This Oriental Pasta Salad recipe is a delightful fusion of flavors and textures that will tantalize your taste buds. The combination of fresh vegetables, tender pasta, and a zesty dressing creates a dish that is perfect for picnics, potlucks, or as a satisfying side dish for any meal. Let’s dive into this easy-to-make and delicious recipe!
**Oriental Pasta Salad**
**Ingredients:**
– 8 oz bow tie pasta
– 1 cup shredded carrots
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 yellow bell pepper, diced
– 1 cup sugar snap peas, halved
– 1/2 cup chopped green onions
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 1/2 cup slivered almonds
– Sesame seeds for garnish
**Dressing:**
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
**Instructions:**
1. Cook the bow tie pasta according to package instructions. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, shredded carrots, diced red and yellow bell peppers, sugar snap peas, green onions, and chopped cilantro.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, rice vinegar, honey, sesame oil, grated ginger, minced garlic, salt, and pepper to make the dressing.
4. Pour the dressing over the pasta and vegetable mixture. Toss well to coat everything evenly.
5. Cover the bowl and refrigerate the salad for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to meld together.
6. Just before serving, sprinkle the slivered almonds and sesame seeds over the top for added crunch and nuttiness.
7. Serve chilled and enjoy this Oriental Pasta Salad as a refreshing and satisfying dish!
Prepare this Oriental Pasta Salad with its colorful array of veggies, nutty almonds, and a flavor-packed dressing infused with the goodness of soy sauce and sesame oil. This dish is not only a feast for the palate but also a feast for the eyes with its vibrant mix of ingredients. It’s a versatile recipe that can be customized to your taste by adding in your favorite protein like grilled chicken or shrimp. Make a batch of this salad for your next gathering and watch it disappear in no time! Whether you’re enjoying it alfresco with a chilled glass of white wine or as a flavorful side dish at a family dinner, this Oriental Pasta Salad is sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection.
