2 Cold Pasta Recipes to Stay Refreshed in Spring

 Warmer weather is just on the horizon, and that means it's time for cold pasta salads!

These recipes are perfect for a hot day, and they're all easy to make. Whether you're looking for a classic pasta salad or something a little more unique, you'll find something to love here. Cold pasta dishes are a fantastic way to eat a refreshing meal without adding any more heat to the day.

Recipe 1: Spring Pea and Arugula Pasta Salad

This recipe is a light, refreshing salad perfect for a summer lunch or dinner. We recommend adding some asparagus and mint leaves to include even more refreshing greens!

Ingredients:

• 500g penne pasta
• 1 cup frozen peas, thawed
• 1 cup arugula leaves
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions:

1. Cook the pasta according to the package directions. Drain and rinse with cold water.
2. In a large bowl, combine the pasta, peas, arugula, Parmesan cheese, olive oil, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper. Toss to combine.
3. Serve immediately or chill for later.

Tips & Tricks:

• For a more flavorful salad, use fresh peas instead of frozen.
• Add other spring vegetables, such as carrots, asparagus, or snap peas.
• For a creamy dressing, use mayonnaise or yogurt instead of olive oil.
• Add a touch of sweetness with honey or maple syrup.

Recipe 3: Caprese Pasta Salad

Discover the timeless taste of a classic Italian salad that's perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients:

• 500g penne pasta
• 500g grape tomatoes, halved
• 1/2 cup mozzarella cheese, diced
• 1/4 cup basil leaves, torn
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions:

1. Cook the pasta according to the package directions. Drain and rinse with cold water.
2. In a large bowl, combine the pasta, tomatoes, mozzarella cheese, basil leaves, olive oil, balsamic vinegar, salt, and pepper. Toss to combine.
3. Serve immediately or chill for later.

Tips & Tricks:

• Use heirloom tomatoes for more flavor and color.
• Add other types of cheese, such as burrata or goat cheese.
• For a richer dressing, use heavy cream or sour cream.
• Garnish with fresh basil leaves.

Making your cold pasta salad even better.

• Use good-quality ingredients. This means using fresh pasta, vegetables, and cheese. Homemade pasta tastes better, cooks faster, and is a fun way to do something hands-on with a partner or friend.
• Season the pasta salad. Add salt and pepper to taste, and you can also add other seasonings, such as dried herbs, spices, or garlic powder.
• Don't overdress the salad. A little dressing goes a long way.
• Let the salad chill in the refrigerator for at least an hour before serving. This will allow the flavours to blend and the pasta to absorb the dressing.
• Get creative! There are endless possibilities when it comes to customizing cold pasta salads. So have fun experimenting with different ingredients and flavours.

These are just a few of the many delicious cold pasta recipes that you can enjoy this summer. So get creative and have fun experimenting with different flavours and ingredients. What's your favourite cold pasta salad? Share your recipe in the comments below!