Looking to add a fresh twist to your summer dining repertoire? This Snow Pea Pasta Salad is a vibrant and light dish that boasts a delightful combination of flavors and textures. Perfect for picnics, potlucks, or just as a refreshing side dish for any meal, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your rotation. Let’s dive in and discover how to create this delicious and colorful salad that is as pleasing to the eye as it is to the palate.
Snow Pea Pasta Salad
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. farfalle pasta
– 1 cup snow peas, trimmed and sliced
– 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
– 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled
– 2 tbsp fresh basil, chopped
– 1/4 cup pine nuts, toasted
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook the farfalle pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta and rinse it under cold water to stop the cooking process. Set aside.
2. In a medium bowl, blanch the snow peas in boiling water for about 1-2 minutes until they turn bright green. Immediately transfer them to a bowl of ice water to retain their crispness. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, blanched snow peas, cherry tomatoes, red onion, feta cheese, and fresh basil. Gently toss the ingredients until evenly distributed.
4. Season the salad with salt and pepper to taste. Adjust the seasoning as needed, keeping in mind that the feta cheese will also add a salty element to the dish.
5. Sprinkle the toasted pine nuts over the salad just before serving to add a delightful crunch and nutty flavor.
6. Serve the Snow Pea Pasta Salad chilled or at room temperature, allowing the flavors to meld together before enjoying.
Snow Pea Pasta Salad is a delightful medley of garden-fresh ingredients that come together to create a light and satisfying dish that is perfect for warm days or any occasion where you crave a refreshing meal. The sweetness of the cherry tomatoes, the crunch of the snow peas, and the creaminess of the feta cheese all combine beautifully with the pasta to offer a delightful eating experience.
This salad is versatile and can be easily customized to suit your preferences. Feel free to add grilled chicken or shrimp for a protein boost, or toss in some avocado slices for extra creaminess. You can also experiment with different herbs like mint or parsley to add a unique twist to the flavor profile.
Whether you serve it as a main dish for a quick and healthy lunch or as a side dish at your next gathering, this Snow Pea Pasta Salad is sure to impress. Its vibrant colors and fresh flavors make it a standout on any table, and its simple preparation ensures that you can whip it up in no time. Try this recipe today and bring a taste of summer to your dining experience!
