Save Brighten up your table with this Fresh Spring Pea and Mint Pasta Salad, a vibrant dish that perfectly captures the essence of spring. Combining sweet peas, refreshing cucumber, and a burst of fresh herbs, this salad is dressed in a zesty lemon vinaigrette that makes it a standout choice for light lunches or outdoor gatherings.
Save This Modern European salad is as easy to make as it is delicious, offering a vegetarian-friendly option that doesn't compromise on flavor. Whether you're planning a picnic or simply want a fresh side dish, this recipe delivers a zesty and crisp experience in every bite.
Ingredients
- 250 g (about 9 oz) small pasta (e.g., farfalle, orecchiette, or penne)
- 1 cup (150 g) fresh or frozen peas
- 1 small cucumber, diced
- 3 spring onions, thinly sliced
- 1/3 cup (15 g) fresh mint leaves, chopped
- 1/4 cup (10 g) fresh flat-leaf parsley, chopped
- 50 g (1.75 oz) feta cheese, crumbled (optional)
- 1 lemon, zested and juiced
- 3 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tsp honey or maple syrup
- 1 small garlic clove, finely minced
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta and Peas
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. In the last 2 minutes of cooking, add the peas to the boiling water. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process.
- Combine Main Ingredients
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta and peas with the diced cucumber, sliced spring onions, chopped mint, and parsley.
- Prepare the Vinaigrette
- In a small bowl or jar, whisk together the lemon zest, lemon juice, extra-virgin olive oil, Dijon mustard, honey or maple syrup, and finely minced garlic. Season with salt and pepper, whisking until the mixture is fully emulsified.
- Toss and Coat
- Pour the lemon vinaigrette over the pasta salad and toss gently to ensure all ingredients are evenly coated with the dressing.
- Add the Garnish
- If using, sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese over the salad and toss lightly to distribute.
- Chill and Serve
- Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed. For the best flavor development, chill the salad in the refrigerator for 15–30 minutes before serving.
Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung
To ensure the best texture, always rinse the pasta under cold water immediately after draining. This removes excess starch and prevents the pasta from sticking together, while also keeping the peas bright green and crisp.
Varianten und Anpassungen
This recipe is highly adaptable. For a vegan version, simply omit the feta or use a plant-based alternative. For added protein, you can mix in grilled chicken or a can of chickpeas. If peas aren't your favorite, try substituting them with snap peas or edamame for a different crunch.
Serviervorschläge
This salad is perfect for meal prep as it keeps well in the fridge for up to 2 days. It is best served as a light lunch or a refreshing side dish for grilled vegetables and proteins during a spring or summer picnic.
Save Enjoy this delightful Fresh Spring Pea and Mint Pasta Salad! With its balance of sweet, tangy, and herbal notes, it is sure to become a seasonal favorite in your kitchen.
Recipe FAQ
- → Can I make this pasta salad ahead of time?
Yes, this salad actually benefits from chilling 15-30 minutes before serving. The flavors meld together beautifully, and it keeps well in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
- → What pasta shapes work best?
Small shapes like farfalle, orecchiette, or penne are ideal because they catch the vinaigrette and peas well. Choose pasta with nooks and crannies to hold the dressing.
- → Can I use frozen peas instead of fresh?
Absolutely. Frozen peas work perfectly fine—just add them during the last 2 minutes of pasta cooking time to thaw and heat through.
- → How can I make this dairy-free?
Simply omit the feta cheese or substitute with a plant-based alternative. The salad remains delicious and satisfying without cheese.
- → What can I add for extra protein?
Grilled chicken, chickpeas, white beans, or even edamame make excellent protein additions while maintaining the light, fresh character of the dish.
- → Can I substitute the mint?
While mint provides the signature fresh flavor, you can partially substitute with basil or dill. However, mint pairs uniquely well with peas and lemon.