How To Make Spring Pea Pasta Salad Everyone Will Love
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Fresh, vibrant, and easy! Learn how to make spring pea pasta salad with zesty lemon dressing, crunchy veggies, and garden-fresh herbs. Perfect for any occasion!
Welcome Spring With This Refreshing Spring Pea Pasta Salad
When warmer days arrive, nothing hits the spot quite like a crisp, colorful salad. And this spring pea pasta salad is exactly what your taste buds have been waiting for. It’s light, refreshing, and loaded with seasonal vegetables, making it the perfect side dish for potlucks, barbecues, or even a quick weeknight dinner.
With just a few simple ingredients and less than 30 minutes of prep time, you can have a vibrant and satisfying dish that screams spring in every bite.
Why You’ll Love This Pasta Salad
Let’s be honest—many pasta salads tend to be overly heavy or bland. But not this one. Here’s why this spring pea pasta salad is a total game-changer:
• It’s full of flavor: Thanks to a zesty lemon herb vinaigrette that keeps things fresh.
• It’s incredibly colorful: With pops of green peas, radishes, and herbs, it’s practically edible artwork.
• It’s healthy yet satisfying: You get the comfort of pasta with the crispness of raw veggies.
• It’s make-ahead friendly: Ideal for entertaining, meal prepping, or weekday lunches.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Let’s talk about what makes this salad so crave-worthy. You probably have most of these ingredients in your kitchen already:
For the Salad:
• 8 oz rotini or farfalle pasta (whole wheat or gluten-free optional)
• 1 ½ cups fresh or frozen green peas
• ½ cup thinly sliced radishes
• ½ cup diced cucumber
• ¼ red onion, finely sliced
• ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 2 tbsp fresh mint, chopped
• Optional: ½ cup crumbled feta cheese or vegan cheese
For the Lemon Herb Vinaigrette:
• ¼ cup extra virgin olive oil
• 2 tbsp lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
• 1 tbsp lemon zest
• 1 tsp Dijon mustard
• 1 garlic clove, minced
• Salt and pepper to taste
Step-by-Step: How To Make Spring Pea Pasta Salad
1. Cook the Pasta
Begin by cooking your pasta according to package instructions. Once it’s al dente, drain and rinse under cold water to cool it down quickly.
2. Prep the Peas and Veggies
If using fresh peas, blanch them in boiling water for 1 minute and then shock them in ice water. If frozen, simply thaw and rinse. Slice your radishes, cucumbers, red onion, and herbs while the pasta cools.
3. Make the Lemon Herb Vinaigrette
In a small bowl or mason jar, combine olive oil, lemon juice, zest, Dijon mustard, and garlic. Add a pinch of salt and black pepper. Shake or whisk until fully emulsified.
4. Toss Everything Together
In a large bowl, mix the cooked pasta, peas, vegetables, and herbs. Pour the vinaigrette over the top and gently toss to coat. Crumble in the feta if using.
5. Chill and Serve
Refrigerate for at least 15–30 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld and the salad to get perfectly chilled.
Simple Swaps & Customizations
Want to make this dish your own? Here are some easy ways to switch things up:
• Add protein: Grilled chicken, salmon, tofu, or chickpeas make it a complete meal.
• Make it dairy-free: Skip the cheese or use a plant-based option.
• Change the pasta: Try orzo, penne, or a gluten-free variety.
• Boost the crunch: Add toasted almonds, sunflower seeds, or pine nuts.
When To Serve This Salad
Because this dish is so versatile, it works well in many settings:
• Spring brunches and Easter celebrations
• Outdoor picnics and BBQs
• Potlucks, family gatherings, or baby showers
• Healthy work lunches and meal prep Sundays
And thanks to the vinaigrette-based dressing, it holds up beautifully without getting soggy.
Health Benefits of Spring Pea Pasta Salad
This salad isn’t just beautiful—it’s good for you too!
• Green peas are high in plant-based protein and fiber.
• Fresh herbs like mint and parsley support digestion.
• Olive oil offers heart-healthy fats.
• Lemon juice adds vitamin C and a burst of brightness.
It’s a great way to get in more veggies without sacrificing taste.
FAQs About Spring Pea Pasta Salad
Can I make it ahead of time?
Yes! This salad can be made a day in advance. In fact, it tastes even better after sitting overnight.
Do I have to use fresh peas?
Not at all. Frozen peas work just as well and are super convenient.
How long does it last in the fridge?
Stored in an airtight container, it stays fresh for up to 3–4 days.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for a dish that checks all the boxes—easy, healthy, flavorful, and seasonally on-point—this spring pea pasta salad is the one to try. It’s the kind of recipe that earns a permanent spot in your spring rotation. Plus, it’s so gorgeous it’s practically begging to be shared on Instagram or Pinterest.
So go ahead—make it once, and you’ll find yourself craving it again and again.
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