Looking for a vibrant and refreshing dish that’s perfect for any occasion? Look no further than our delightful Pasta Salad with Tomatoes and Peas! Bursting with flavor and color, this Italian-inspired recipe is a culinary masterpiece that can be whipped up in just 25 minutes. Whether you're hosting a summer barbecue or simply craving a light lunch, this pasta salad is sure to impress your family and friends. With juicy cherry tomatoes, sweet peas, and a zesty lemon dressing, every bite is a taste of sunshine on your plate. Dive into this recipe and discover how easy it is to create a dish that’s both delicious and visually stunning!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 10 mins
Total Time: 25 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 8 oz pasta
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup peas, fresh or frozen
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tbsp lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil for garnish
Instructions
- Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil over high heat. This will be used to cook the pasta.
- Once the water is boiling, add the 8 oz of pasta to the pot. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and cook according to the package instructions until al dente, usually about 8-10 minutes.
- While the pasta is cooking, prepare the vegetables. If using fresh peas, rinse them under cold water. If using frozen peas, you can add them directly to the pasta during the last 2 minutes of cooking.
- After the pasta has cooked, reserve about 1/2 cup of the pasta water, then drain the pasta in a colander. Rinse briefly under cold water to stop the cooking process and cool the pasta down.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the drained pasta, 1 cup of halved cherry tomatoes, and 1 cup of peas. Toss gently to mix the ingredients together.
- In a small bowl, whisk together 1/4 cup of olive oil, 2 tablespoons of lemon juice, and a pinch of salt and pepper to taste. Adjust the seasoning as needed.
- Pour the dressing over the pasta salad mixture. Toss everything together until the pasta and vegetables are well coated with the dressing. If the salad seems dry, you can add a little of the reserved pasta water to achieve your desired consistency.
- Let the pasta salad sit for about 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. This can be done at room temperature or in the refrigerator if you prefer a chilled salad.
- Before serving, taste the salad and adjust the seasoning with more salt, pepper, or lemon juice if necessary. Garnish with fresh basil leaves for a pop of color and flavor.
- Serve the pasta salad in bowls or on a large platter. Enjoy your delicious and refreshing Pasta Salad with Tomatoes and Peas!
Tips
- Choose the Right Pasta: Opt for short pasta shapes like fusilli or penne, as they hold onto the dressing and ingredients better than long pasta.
- Enhance the Flavor: For an extra burst of flavor, consider adding some grated Parmesan cheese or crumbled feta cheese to the salad before serving.
- Fresh vs. Frozen Peas: If using fresh peas, ensure they are tender and sweet. Frozen peas are a convenient alternative and can be added directly to the pasta during the last couple of minutes of cooking.
- Chill for Best Results: Allowing the salad to sit for at least 5 minutes (or longer in the fridge) helps the flavors meld beautifully, making each bite even more delicious.
- Garnish Wisely: Fresh basil is a fantastic garnish that adds a pop of color and enhances the dish's aroma. Consider adding other herbs like parsley or mint for a unique twist.
- Adjust to Your Taste: Don’t hesitate to tweak the dressing ingredients based on your preferences. A splash of balsamic vinegar or a hint of garlic can elevate the flavor profile.
- Perfect for Meal Prep: This pasta salad keeps well in the fridge for a few days, making it an excellent option for meal prep. Just give it a good toss before serving to refresh the ingredients.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 350kcal
Carbohydrates: 45g
Protein: 10g
Fat: 15g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 0mg
