Layered Spring Pasta Salad: A Fresh and Flavorful Dish
This Layered Spring Pasta Salad is a delightful fusion of textures and flavors, perfect for potlucks, picnics, or a light summer meal. It's a visually appealing dish with vibrant colors and a refreshing taste profile. The creamy dressing complements the crunchy vegetables and tender pasta, creating a harmonious balance.
Ingredients
For the Pasta Salad:
- 1 (16 oz) box bowtie pasta, cooked and cooled
- 1 ½ cups chopped romaine lettuce
- 1 cup frozen peas, thawed
- 1 cup frozen edamame (mukimame), thawed
- 1 ½ cups diced cooked ham
- 1 cup marinated artichoke hearts, drained
- ¾ cup thinly sliced radishes
- ¾ cup chopped green onions
- 1 shallot, thinly sliced
- ¾ cup shaved Parmesan cheese, for garnish
For the Dressing:
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- ¾ cup sour cream
- 1 tablespoon white wine vinegar
- 2 teaspoons lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 3 cloves minced garlic
- 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
Instructions
- Prepare the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream, white wine vinegar, lemon juice, sugar, garlic, and Italian seasoning until smooth and creamy. Set aside.
- Assemble the Salad: In a large glass serving bowl or trifle dish, start by layering the romaine lettuce at the bottom. Top with cooked pasta, then arrange the remaining ingredients in layers: peas, edamame, ham, artichoke hearts, radishes, green onions, and shallot.
- Dress the Salad: Pour the prepared dressing evenly over the layered salad. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, allowing the flavors to meld.
- Serve: Before serving, gently toss the salad to combine the ingredients and dressing. Sprinkle with shaved Parmesan cheese for added richness and presentation.
Tips
- For a vegetarian option, replace the ham with grilled chicken or tofu cubes.
- To add a touch of crunch, include a handful of toasted pine nuts or sliced almonds.
- For a more intense flavor, use fresh herbs like basil or dill in the dressing.
- This salad can be prepared a day in advance, making it a convenient option for busy schedules.
- To prevent the pasta from becoming soggy, drain it well and rinse with cold water before adding to the salad.
This Layered Spring Pasta Salad is a refreshing and vibrant dish that's perfect for any occasion. With its colorful layers of pasta, vegetables, and protein, it's as visually appealing as it is delicious. The creamy dressing brings together all the flavors, while the fresh ingredients provide a delightful crunch. This easy-to-make salad is perfect for potlucks, picnics, or a light lunch.
Comments
Post a Comment