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Spring Pea Pasta Salad

A vibrant, nutrient-dense pasta salad with fresh herbs, bright citrus, and the perfect texture contrast between al dente pasta and sweet green peas.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 12 minutes
Total Time 22 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Main Course, Side Dish
Cuisine: Italian, Mediterranean
Calories: 400
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 12 oz short pasta (farfalle, rotini, gemelli) Choose a shape that holds dressing well.
  • 2 cups frozen or fresh peas If frozen, thawed or briefly blanched.
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved Optional for color.
  • 3/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan or pecorino Add other cheeses as desired.
  • 1/2 cup fresh basil, chiffonade Fresh herbs enhance flavor.
  • 1/4 cup fresh mint, chopped Optional; brightens the peas.
  • 1 small shallot, finely minced Adds a mild onion flavor.
  • 3 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil Use a good quality oil.
  • 2 tbsp lemon juice Juice from about 1 lemon.
  • 1 tsp Dijon mustard For flavor in the vinaigrette.
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste For seasoning.
  • 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes Optional for heat.
  • 1/2 cup creamy ricotta or torn burrata for serving Optional; adds creaminess.
  • Toasted pine nuts or sliced almonds for garnish Optional for crunch.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil.
  2. Cook the pasta according to package directions until al dente. Reserve ¾ cup of pasta water before draining.
  3. If using frozen peas, add them to the pasta pot in the last 60 seconds; if fresh, blanch for 30–45 seconds, then shock in ice water.
  4. Meanwhile, whisk together lemon juice, zest, Dijon mustard, minced shallot, olive oil, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes.
Assembly
  1. Toss warm pasta, peas, and vinaigrette in a large bowl. Add reserved pasta water a tablespoon at a time until the dressing clings nicely.
  2. Fold in grated Parmesan, basil, and mint. Adjust salt and lemon to taste.
  3. Serve warm or at room temperature with dollops of ricotta or torn burrata and a sprinkle of nuts.

Notes

For variations, try different types of pasta, add canned chickpeas or shredded chicken for extra protein, or substitute lemon with lime for a different flavor profile. Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.