Go Back
+ servings
Lemon-Dijon Asparagus and Pea Macaroni Salad

Creamy Lemon-Dijon Asparagus and Pea Macaroni Salad Bliss

Enjoy this vibrant Lemon-Dijon Asparagus and Pea Macaroni Salad, a refreshing and crowd-pleasing dish that's vegan and gluten-free.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Cooling Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Salad
Cuisine: Gluten-Free, Vegan
Calories: 320

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta
  • 2 cups Elbow Macaroni Pasta Substitute with gluten-free varieties if needed.
For the Veggies
  • 1 bunch Fresh Asparagus Remove tough ends and slice into bite-sized pieces.
  • 1 cup Frozen Peas No need to thaw before adding.
  • 1/2 cup Sun-Dried Tomatoes Use marinated and roughly chopped for best results.
For the Dressing
  • 1/2 cup Mayonnaise For a vegan option, use Vegenaise.
  • 1 tablespoon Lemons (Juice and Zest) Using both maximizes flavor.
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon Mustard A little goes a long way.
  • 1 clove Garlic Minced or grated works well.
  • 1/2 teaspoon Fine Sea Salt Adjust to taste.
  • 1/4 teaspoon Fresh Ground Pepper Sprinkle to your desired spice level.
For the Garnish
  • 1/4 cup Curly Parsley Finely chop for a beautiful presentation.
  • 2 tablespoons Chives Consider using chive flowers for a unique garnish.

Equipment

  • Large pot
  • Colander
  • Medium Bowl
  • large bowl
  • Plastic Wrap
  • spatula

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil over high heat. Once boiling, add the elbow macaroni and cook according to package instructions for about 8-10 minutes, or until al dente. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
  2. In the last 4 minutes of cooking, gently stir in the sliced asparagus. Add the frozen peas during the final minute.
  3. After the pasta and vegetables are cooked, drain the mixture in a colander. Rinse under cold water to cool down the ingredients.
  4. Once cooled, stir in the chopped sun-dried tomatoes and chill the mix in the refrigerator for about 15-20 minutes.
  5. Prepare the dressing by whisking together the mayonnaise, lemon juice, lemon zest, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, fine sea salt, and fresh ground pepper until smooth.
  6. Retrieve the chilled pasta and vegetable mixture, pour the creamy dressing over the top, and add the finely chopped parsley and chives. Gently toss until well-coated.
  7. Serve immediately or store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 320kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 9gFat: 12gSaturated Fat: 1.5gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 10mgSodium: 400mgPotassium: 300mgFiber: 5gSugar: 4gVitamin A: 10IUVitamin C: 60mgCalcium: 5mgIron: 10mg

Notes

Enjoy your salad within the first few days to savor its vibrant flavors. Chilling the salad enhances the flavors beautifully.

Tried this recipe?

Let us know how it was!