Indulge in a symphony of flavors with Lemon Garlic Asparagus Warm Caprese Pasta Salad, a delightful dish that tantalizes your taste buds. This vibrant salad features succulent asparagus spears roasted to perfection, tossed with tender pasta, juicy cherry tomatoes, and fresh basil, all enveloped in a tangy lemon-garlic dressing. The addition of creamy mozzarella cheese adds a luscious touch, while a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese provides a nutty finish. Alongside this main recipe, discover variations that cater to different dietary preferences, including a gluten-free option and an alternative dressing for those who prefer a vegan delight. Embark on a culinary journey that promises a burst of flavors and textures with Lemon Garlic Asparagus Warm Caprese Pasta Salad and its versatile variations.
Check out the recipes below so you can choose the best recipe for yourself!
ASPARAGUS LEMON PASTA SALAD
Steps:
- Prepare penne according to package directions. Once cooked, toss with 1 teaspoon olive oil and chill. Cut off 1 - 2 inches of the base of asparagus and discard. Slice asparagus into 1 1/2-inch pieces. Simmer in skillet with water until tender, about 12 minutes. Drain asparagus and plunge into a bowl of ice water. This will help maintain the bright green color and stop the asparagus from cooking further. Toast pine nuts in oven until golden. In small bowl squeeze juice from lemon and grate the rind to create lemon zest. In large bowl whisk together lemon and rind, salt, pepper and remaining olive oil. Add asparagus, drained red pepper, pine nuts and pasta. Serve.
PASTA CAPRESE
Provided by Food Network
Time 45m
Yield 8 servings
Number Of Ingredients 12
Steps:
- Whisk the olive oil, lemon juice, shallot and garlic in a large bowl. Season with salt and pepper. Add sugar, if desired (depending on the sweetness of your tomatoes). Add the tomatoes and gently toss. Marinate at room temperature, about 15 minutes.
- Meanwhile, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook as the label directs. Drain in a colander and run under cold water to stop the cooking.
- Add the pasta and mozzarella to the tomato mixture and toss. Stir in the basil and lemon zest, and season with salt and pepper. Refrigerate, tossing occasionally, until serving.
LEMON, GARLIC, AND ASPARAGUS WARM CAPRESE PASTA SALAD
There are so many reasons I love this recipe. Caprese salad has to be one of my favorite summertime treats. There is nothing like a summer tomatoes' sweetness mixed with the peppery sweetness fresh basil offers, the zing of lemon and richness of garlic. It is SO good.
Provided by Ebwallace
Categories Caprese Salad
Time 40m
Yield 6
Number Of Ingredients 10
Steps:
- Fill a large pot with lightly salted water and bring to a boil. Stir in penne and return to a boil. Cook pasta uncovered, stirring occasionally, until cooked through but still firm to the bite, about 11 minutes; drain.
- Place asparagus into a saucepan, add a little water, and place over medium heat; cover pan and let asparagus steam until bright green and tender, 3 to 4 minutes. Drain.
- Heat olive oil with butter and lemon juice in a large saucepan over medium-low heat until butter melts; cook and stir shallot in hot oil and butter mixture until it just begins to soften, 1 to 2 minutes. Stir garlic into shallot mixture and cook until shallot and garlic are opaque, 3 more minutes. Stir asparagus and chicken into mixture; cook until heated through, about 5 minutes.
- Toss pasta with chicken and vegetables to combine; mix tomato and basil into salad and serve warm.
Nutrition Facts : Calories 446.3 calories, Carbohydrate 60 g, Cholesterol 23.2 mg, Fat 17.6 g, Fiber 4.3 g, Protein 15 g, SaturatedFat 5.5 g, Sodium 54.3 mg, Sugar 4.4 g
Tips:
- Select Fresh Ingredients: Use fresh asparagus, ripe tomatoes, and flavorful basil for the best results.
- Cook Asparagus Properly: Blanch the asparagus until tender-crisp to retain its vibrant color and texture.
- Marinate Tomatoes: Marinating the tomatoes in olive oil, balsamic vinegar, and herbs enhances their flavor.
- Use Quality Pasta: Choose a high-quality pasta, such as penne or rotini, to hold the sauce and ingredients well.
- Make a Flavorful Dressing: Combine olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and Parmesan cheese for a tangy and aromatic dressing.
- Assemble Carefully: Layer the pasta, asparagus, tomatoes, and mozzarella in a visually appealing manner.
- Chill Before Serving: Refrigerate the pasta salad for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld.
- Garnish Elegantly: Top the pasta salad with fresh basil leaves and a drizzle of olive oil for an appetizing presentation.
Conclusion:
This lemon-garlic-asparagus warm Caprese pasta salad is a delightful fusion of flavors and textures. Its vibrant colors and refreshing taste make it a perfect dish for warm weather gatherings or light meals. With its blend of fresh vegetables, zesty dressing, and the classic combination of caprese elements, this pasta salad offers a satisfying and nutritious option that is sure to impress your family and friends. Enjoy it as a main course or as a vibrant side dish, and savor the burst of summer flavors in every bite.
Are you curently on diet or you just want to control your food's nutritions, ingredients? We will help you find recipes by cooking method, nutrition, ingredients...
Check it out »
You'll also love