Best 2 Springtime Pasta Salad Recipes

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Indulge in a burst of springtime flavors with our refreshing pasta salad, a symphony of vibrant ingredients that will tantalize your taste buds. Featuring tender cooked pasta, a medley of crisp vegetables, and a zesty dressing, this delightful dish is perfect for a light and flavorful meal.

Soak up the sunshine with our tangy Lemon Garlic Shrimp Pasta, where succulent shrimp are tossed in a vibrant lemon-garlic sauce, complemented by al dente pasta and a sprinkle of fresh herbs.

For a vegetarian delight, try our Mediterranean Orzo Pasta Salad, packed with colorful bell peppers, juicy tomatoes, and briny olives, all tossed in a zesty vinaigrette dressing. Feta cheese crumbles add a salty tang, while fresh basil leaves provide a fragrant touch.

If you prefer a creamy indulgence, dive into our Pesto Pasta Salad, a flavorful combination of tender pasta coated in a rich and aromatic pesto sauce. Sun-dried tomatoes and roasted pine nuts add a delightful textural contrast, while baby spinach leaves offer a refreshing crunch.

Craving a spicy kick? Our Arrabbiata Pasta Salad delivers a fiery punch with its spicy tomato sauce, featuring crushed red pepper flakes and a hint of garlic. Topped with grated Parmesan cheese and fresh basil, this salad is sure to awaken your senses.

And for a classic touch, our Caesar Pasta Salad offers a timeless combination of crisp romaine lettuce, creamy Caesar dressing, and crunchy croutons. Shaved Parmesan cheese adds a salty richness, while freshly ground black pepper provides a subtle hint of spice.

Let's cook with our recipes!

SPRINGTIME PASTA SALAD



Springtime Pasta Salad image

This simple make-ahead salad is the perfect dish to prepare for a picnic, party or potluck. The dill in the dressing makes it extra refreshing. -Vicki Schrupp, Little Falls, Minnesota

Provided by Taste of Home

Categories     Lunch

Time 20m

Yield 6-8 servings.

Number Of Ingredients 12

2 cups spiral pasta
1 medium zucchini, cubed
1/2 cup sliced ripe olives
1/2 cup chopped sweet red pepper
1/4 cup chopped onion
1/2 cup Miracle Whip
1/4 cup sour cream
1-1/4 teaspoons dill weed
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon ground mustard
1/4 teaspoon pepper
1/4 teaspoon garlic salt

Steps:

  • Cook pasta according to package directions; drain and rinse with cold water. Place in a large bowl. Add zucchini, olives, red pepper and onion. Combine remaining ingredients; pour over salad and toss to coat. Cover and chill for 2 hours.

Nutrition Facts : Calories 141 calories, Fat 9g fat (2g saturated fat), Cholesterol 7mg cholesterol, Sodium 239mg sodium, Carbohydrate 12g carbohydrate (1g sugars, Fiber 1g fiber), Protein 2g protein.

SPRINGTIME PASTA SALAD



Springtime Pasta Salad image

This light, colorful, and fresh pasta salad that everyone will love is great for get-togethers! Easy to reduce calories by using light mayo and light sour cream. If you make this the night before, add a little water and toss again to 'rejuvenate' before serving the next day.

Provided by Becky Ley

Categories     Salad     100+ Pasta Salad Recipes     Rotini Pasta Salad Recipes

Time 2h25m

Yield 8

Number Of Ingredients 10

2 cups spiral veggie pasta
1 cucumber - peeled, seeded, and chopped
½ cup sliced black olives
¼ cup chopped red onion
½ cup mayonnaise
¼ cup sour cream
1 ¼ teaspoons dill weed
½ teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon dry mustard
¼ teaspoon garlic salt

Steps:

  • Bring a large pot of lightly salted water to a boil; cook pasta at a boil until tender yet firm to the bite, about 8 minutes; drain. Rinse pasta with cold water until cool; drain. Transfer pasta to a large bowl.
  • Stir cucumber, black olives, red onion, mayonnaise, sour cream, dill, salt, dry mustard, and garlic salt together in a bowl; pour over the pasta and gently mix to coat evenly.
  • Cover bowl with plastic wrap; refrigerate for 2 hours before serving.

Nutrition Facts : Calories 134.2 calories, Carbohydrate 14.7 g, Cholesterol 7 mg, Fat 7.7 g, Fiber 0.9 g, Protein 2.5 g, SaturatedFat 1.9 g, Sodium 391.8 mg, Sugar 1.8 g

Tips:

  • Use fresh, seasonal ingredients for optimal flavor and texture. Visit local farmers' markets or grow your own herbs and vegetables for the best produce.
  • Cook the pasta al dente, according to package instructions, to maintain a slight bite. This will prevent the pasta from becoming mushy in the salad.
  • Prep and cut the vegetables and herbs evenly for a visually appealing and consistent taste throughout the salad.
  • For a vibrant and colorful salad, choose a variety of vegetables in different colors, such as red bell pepper, yellow squash, and green asparagus.
  • Don't overcrowd the pan when sautéing the vegetables; cook them in batches if necessary to ensure even cooking and prevent steaming.
  • Use a light hand when dressing the salad to avoid overpowering the flavors of the fresh ingredients. A simple vinaigrette made with olive oil, lemon juice, and a touch of honey is often sufficient.
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. The salad may release some liquid as it sits, so drain any excess before serving.

Conclusion:

Springtime pasta salad is a delightful and refreshing dish that showcases the best of the season's bounty. With its vibrant colors, crisp textures, and burst of flavors, this salad is perfect for picnics, potlucks, or light meals. The use of fresh, seasonal ingredients ensures that each bite is packed with nutrients and natural goodness. By following these tips and variations, you can create a springtime pasta salad that is both delicious and visually stunning, making it a favorite among family and friends.

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