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Lemon-Dijon Asparagus and Pea Macaroni Salad

Zesty Lemon-Dijon Asparagus and Pea Macaroni Salad Delight

A vibrant Lemon-Dijon Asparagus and Pea Macaroni Salad that bursts with flavor and is ready in just 30 minutes.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Chilling Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Salads
Cuisine: Plant-Based
Calories: 350

Ingredients
  

For the Salad
  • 8 oz Elbow Macaroni Pasta Consider gluten-free varieties to accommodate dietary needs.
  • 1 cup Fresh Asparagus Trim the tough ends for best results.
  • 1 cup Frozen Peas These will cook perfectly with the hot pasta.
  • 1/2 cup Sun-Dried Tomatoes Ensure they are marinated and drained before chopping.
For the Dressing
  • 1/2 cup Mayonnaise Swap with Vegenaise for a vegan alternative.
  • 2 whole Lemons (juice and zest) Fresh juice is recommended.
  • 1 tbsp Dijon Mustard Use just the right amount to balance the tang.
  • 1 clove Garlic Can be minced for a smoother consistency.
  • 1 tsp Fine Sea Salt Adjust according to your taste preferences.
  • 1/4 tsp Fresh Ground Pepper Personalize this to suit your spice level.
For the Garnish
  • 1/4 cup Curly Parsley Chop it finely for even distribution.
  • 2 tbsp Chives Chive flowers can be pretty edible decorations.

Equipment

  • Large pot
  • Colander
  • large bowl
  • Whisk
  • Knife
  • Cutting Board

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Bring a large pot of water to a rolling boil and add a generous amount of salt. Once boiling, add 8 ounces of elbow macaroni and cook according to package instructions, stirring occasionally until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. In the last 4 minutes of cooking, add 1 cup of chopped fresh asparagus, and in the final minute, toss in 1 cup of frozen peas to ensure vibrant color and crisp texture.
  2. Carefully drain the pasta and vegetable mixture in a colander, allowing excess water to escape. Immediately rinse under cool running water to halt the cooking process and prevent mushiness. Transfer the mixture to a large bowl, spreading it out to cool completely while you prepare the dressing.
  3. Once the pasta mixture is cooled, stir in 1/2 cup of chopped sun-dried tomatoes. Cover the bowl and let it chill in the refrigerator for about 15-20 minutes.
  4. In a separate bowl, whisk together 1/2 cup of mayonnaise, the juice and zest of 2 lemons, 1 tablespoon of Dijon mustard, 1 minced garlic clove, 1 teaspoon of fine sea salt, and 1/4 teaspoon of fresh ground pepper until smooth.
  5. Pour the prepared dressing over the chilled pasta and vegetable mixture. Add 1/4 cup of finely chopped curly parsley and 2 tablespoons of chives. Gently toss to coat all ingredients well.
  6. Serve immediately for the best flavor and freshness, or refrigerate in an airtight container for up to four days.

Nutrition

Serving: 1cupCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 10gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 2gPolyunsaturated Fat: 3gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 15mgSodium: 400mgPotassium: 500mgFiber: 5gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 15mgCalcium: 30mgIron: 1.5mg

Notes

Chilling the salad for 15-20 minutes allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Store leftovers with the dressing separate to maintain texture and flavor.

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