Lemon-Dijon Asparagus Macaroni Salad (Print Version)
# Ingredients:
→ Pasta
01 -
265g (2 cups) Elbow Macaroni Pasta, gluten free if needed
→ Vegetables
02 -
480g (1 lb) Fresh Asparagus, tough ends removed and sliced on the bias into bite size pieces
03 -
200g (1½ cups) Frozen Peas
04 -
120g (⅔ cup) Marinated Sun-dried Tomatoes, drained and chopped
→ Herbs
05 -
15g (⅓ cup) Curly Parsley, finely chopped
06 -
10g (⅓ cup) Chives, finely chopped, plus chive flowers for garnish if available
→ Dressing
07 -
100g (⅓ cup + 1 tablespoon) Mayonnaise, preferably Vegenaise
08 -
Juice of ½ lemon and zest of 1 lemon
09 -
2 tablespoons Dijon Mustard
10 -
1 teaspoon minced or grated Garlic (about 2 large cloves)
11 -
1½ teaspoons Fine Sea Salt
12 -
Freshly Ground Black Pepper to taste
# Instructions:
01 -
Cook pasta according to package directions. During the last four minutes of cooking, add the asparagus to the pasta water. Add the peas during the final minute of cooking time.
02 -
Carefully drain and rinse the pasta and vegetables in a colander under cool running water, tossing to ensure everything is completely cooled.
03 -
Transfer the pasta and vegetables to a large mixing bowl. Stir in the sun-dried tomatoes and place in the refrigerator while preparing the dressing.
04 -
In a small mixing bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, lemon zest, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, garlic, salt, and freshly ground pepper until well combined.
05 -
Remove chilled pasta mixture from refrigerator. Sprinkle with parsley and chives, then pour the dressing over the pasta salad. Gently toss to combine. Adjust lemon, salt, and pepper to taste.
06 -
Garnish with chive flowers if using and serve immediately. The salad can be stored in a lidded container for up to four days, though the vibrant green color of the vegetables is best on the day the salad is made.
# Notes:
01 -
For optimal texture, cook the pasta until just al dente as it will continue to absorb moisture from the dressing.
02 -
The vibrant green color of the vegetables is most pronounced when served the same day it's prepared.