Description
Bright, zesty, and packed with fresh garden-inspired flavors, this Herbed Pea and Lemon Pasta Salad combines crisp green peas, fresh herbs, lemon zest, and creamy plant-based cheese (plant-based) for a refreshing and satisfying dish perfect for light lunches or vibrant sides.
Ingredients
Scale
Salad Ingredients
- 200g cooked fusilli or penne pasta
- 1 cup fresh green peas, blanched
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
- 2 tablespoons fresh dill, finely chopped
- 2 tablespoons fresh mint, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup creamy plant-based cheese (plant-based)
- Zest of 1 lemon
- Juice of 1 lemon
Dressing
- 3 tablespoons olive oil (natural)
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar (natural)
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon natural gelling agent (optional)
Instructions
- Cook and Cool the Pasta: Boil your chosen pasta until al dente according to package instructions. Drain thoroughly and rinse under cold water to stop cooking and cool the pasta.
- Prepare Fresh Peas and Herbs: Blanch fresh peas in boiling water for 2 minutes, then immediately cool them in cold water to preserve their color and crispness. Finely chop parsley, dill, and mint.
- Whisk the Dressing: Combine olive oil (natural), lemon juice, apple cider vinegar (natural), salt, and pepper in a bowl. Whisk until emulsified, adding the natural gelling agent if using, to gently thicken the dressing.
- Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, toss the cooled pasta with peas, chopped herbs, and creamy plant-based cheese (plant-based). Gently pour the dressing over and mix just until everything is evenly coated. Adjust seasoning to taste.
- Chill and Serve: Refrigerate the salad for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld. Before serving, garnish with additional fresh herb leaves and a sprinkle of lemon zest for extra zing and visual appeal.
Notes
- Use fresh herbs for the most vibrant flavor; avoid dried herbs.
- Do not overcook pasta to keep a firm, pleasant texture.
- Chilling the salad enhances flavor infusion from herbs and dressing.
- Adjust lemon juice and seasoning just before serving to balance brightness.
- Add an extra handful of peas or herbs before serving to boost color and texture.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Appetizers
- Method: Boiling
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 7g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: pea pasta salad, lemon pasta salad, herbed pasta salad, plant-based cheese salad, vegan pasta salad, gluten free pasta salad, fresh herb pasta salad