Easy Pasta Salad Recipes with Peas Your Family Will Love
Pasta salad recipes with peas offer a refreshing and simple way to enjoy a light meal, perfect for gatherings or a quick lunch. The combination is delightful.
Equipment
- Large pot
- Colander
- Mixing bowl
- Whisk
- Cutting board
- Chef's knife
- Measuring cups and spoons
Ingredients
- 1 pound pasta (rotini, shells, or farfalle recommended)
- 1 cup frozen peas
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup sour cream
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1/4 cup chopped red onion
- 1/4 cup chopped celery
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh dill
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Step 1: Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente. Drain the pasta and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process. This step is crucial for preventing mushy salad.
- Step 2: Prepare the Peas: While the pasta is cooking, blanch the frozen peas. Place them in a heatproof bowl and cover with boiling water for 2-3 minutes, or until bright green and tender. Drain well and set aside to cool slightly. Fresh peas may be blanched as well.
- Step 3: Make the Dressing: In a large bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sour cream, lemon juice, and Dijon mustard until smooth. Adjust the lemon juice and mustard to your preference for acidity and tanginess.
- Step 4: Combine Ingredients: Add the cooked pasta, peas, red onion, celery, and dill to the bowl with the dressing. Gently toss to coat all ingredients evenly. Ensure the dressing is distributed throughout the salad.
- Step 5: Season and Chill: Season the pasta salad with salt and pepper to taste. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. Chilling enhances the overall taste.
- Step 6: Serve: Before serving, give the pasta salad another gentle toss. Garnish with additional fresh dill, if desired. Serve chilled and enjoy. For a richer flavor, add 1/4 cup of grated Parmesan cheese to the dressing. Diced ham or cooked bacon can be added for extra protein. Use gluten-free pasta to cater to dietary restrictions.
Notes
Variations
Pasta salad recipes with peas are easily adaptable to individual tastes and dietary needs. Several adjustments and additions can further enhance the dish.
- Ingredient Swaps: Consider substituting different types of pasta, such as gluten-free varieties or tri-color rotini, to add visual appeal. Protein sources can range from grilled chicken or shrimp to chickpeas for a vegetarian option. Other vegetables, like cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, or bell peppers, also contribute to a modified flavor profile.
- Regional Twists: Incorporating Mediterranean elements, like Kalamata olives, feta cheese, and a lemon-herb vinaigrette, offers a distinctive regional flair. Asian-inspired iterations could feature sesame oil, soy sauce, shredded carrots, and edamame.
- Dietary Adjustments: For dairy-free versions, replace mayonnaise and sour cream with plant-based alternatives. Enhance flavor with nutritional yeast. Low-sodium versions are achieved by using reduced-sodium ingredients and increasing the use of fresh herbs for seasoning.
Serving Suggestions
Pasta salad with peas serves effectively as a versatile dish, suitable for various occasions. It is an excellent addition to picnics, barbecues, and potlucks. It serves as a light lunch or side dish alongside grilled meats or sandwiches. To elevate the presentation, garnishing with fresh herbs before serving is recommended.
Storage Tips
Proper storage is essential to preserve the freshness and quality of pasta salad. It should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Properly stored pasta salad typically maintains quality for up to 3-5 days. It is advised to avoid freezing pasta salad, as the texture of the mayonnaise and vegetables can degrade upon thawing. Inspect the salad before serving to ensure ingredients are still fresh.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Question 1: Can this salad be made ahead of time?
The pasta salad is ideal for making in advance, allowing flavors to meld. Preparing it 1-2 days before serving is permissible. - Question 2: Is it possible to use canned peas instead of frozen?
While canned peas can be used, frozen peas generally retain a better texture and color. Ensure canned peas are well-drained before adding to the salad. - Question 3: How can the salad be prevented from drying out?
Adding a small amount of milk or mayonnaise before serving can restore moisture to the salad if it appears dry. - Question 4: What other herbs complement this dish?
Besides dill, parsley, chives, and basil all complement the flavors in the pasta salad.