Who doesn’t need a good pasta recipe in their life? I know I always do! And with Memorial Day around the corner that can only mean one thing. Swimming, summer, and BBQ’s! YEEEEEEEEEEES.
Are we really here? End of May, almost June. Summer? It’s happening, and I think I’m ready.
I’m definitely much more ready with this recipe in my back pocket. Quick, easy, and bright flavors make for a great BBQ side dish, picnic lunch, or even dinner!
Spring asparagus is booming right now and I’m taking full advantage. And don’t even get me started on cherry tomatoes. They’re like little candies in my mouth!
You probably already have most of these ingredients in your kitchen! So throw this together, grab your bathing suit, sunglasses, and a towel and I’ll see you poolside.
Artichoke, Asparagus, & Tomato Pasta Salad
Ingredients
- 12 ounces dried penne pasta
- 12 ounces asparagus, trimmed and cut into 1 inch pieces
- 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 12 ounce jar marinated artichokes, chopped
For the dressing
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 3 tablespoons red wine vinegar
- 3-4 tablespoons lemon juice about the juice of 2 lemons
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon dried oregano
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Add a couple large pinches of salt and add the asparagus. Cook for 1-2 minutes, then use a slotted spoon to scoop them out and immediately place them in a bowl of ice water. Drain asparagus and set aside. Bring the same pot of water back to a boil and add the pasta. Cook according to package, about 10-12 minutes.
- Meanwhile, make the dressing by whisking together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, lemon juice, salt, and oregano.
- Once pasta is done cooking, drain and pour into large serving bowl. Toss pasta with a tiny bit of the dressing just so it doesn't stick together. Then add the asparagus, tomatoes, artichokes, and enough dressing to coat well. Toss and serve room temperature or cold!
Can’t wait!
Toby Kirsch
May 24, 2016 at 12:06 pmIt should be against the law to read your blog when you are hungry. I love this new pasta salad and will be over to taste it as soon as you invite me. I think your photos and your gifted writing is fabulous.
Life is but a Dish
May 24, 2016 at 2:31 pmThanks Toby! You know it’s always an open invite!
Jean
May 24, 2016 at 12:13 pmLooks amazing! Do you blanch the asparagus?
Life is but a Dish
May 24, 2016 at 2:31 pmThank you! And YES! Sorry, forgot to add that part to the directions! Just added it!
Kate Wood
August 19, 2016 at 3:45 amLoved watching you make this on the feed feed! I’ve been thinking about it ever since and think I may try it out tonight served cold at a cookout I’m going to!
Life is but a Dish
August 19, 2016 at 1:33 pmHi Kate! Thank you so much! And yes, its PERFECT for a cookout!!
TAMMY
February 5, 2018 at 4:40 amLOOKING FOR WEEKLY HEALTHY MENU PLAN FOR KIDS. MY 9YR OLD IS WEIGHING IN AT 105 LBS. NEED HELP FOR I DONT’ KNOW HOW TO COOK HEALTHY.
Life is but a Dish
February 5, 2018 at 2:45 pmI post weekly dish inspirations every week with lots of healthy options!