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Herby Pasta Salad with California

Herby Pasta Salad with California Olives for Spring Vibes

This Herby Pasta Salad with California Ripe Olives celebrates freshness, combining crunchy asparagus, sweet peas, and tangy feta.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Chilling Time 30 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Salad
Cuisine: American
Calories: 350

Ingredients
  

For the Salad Base
  • 1 pound small pasta like orecchiette Gluten-free pasta can be used for a gluten-free dish.
  • 1 tablespoon kosher salt For flavoring the pasta water and seasoning the salad.
For the Vegetables
  • 2 cups sliced asparagus Leave tips intact for visual appeal.
  • 1.5 cups frozen peas Added straight from the freezer.
  • 0.5 cups marinated red onions Fresh onions can replace marinated ones if desired.
  • 0.5 cups chopped celery For a fresh, crunchy texture.
For the Flavor Boosters
  • 6 ounces sliced California Ripe Olives For briny richness.
  • 0.5 cups chopped roasted unsalted pistachios For nutty crunch.
  • 0.75 cups fresh herbs (dill, parsley, mint) For aromatic freshness.
  • 1-2 pinches red pepper flakes Optional for heat.
For the Creamy Elements
  • 0.75 cups crumbled feta cheese For a creamy, salty kick.

Equipment

  • large pot
  • Medium bowl
  • Large Baking Sheet
  • ice bath
  • mixing bowl

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. In a medium bowl, whisk together ¼ cup of red wine vinegar, 2 minced garlic cloves, 1 teaspoon dried oregano, 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard, 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice, and ½ teaspoon kosher salt. Slowly drizzle in ½ cup of extra virgin olive oil until emulsified.
  2. Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add 1 pound of small pasta and cook until 1 minute shy of al dente, about 7-9 minutes. Drain and spread on a baking sheet to cool. Drizzle with a tablespoon of dressing.
  3. In a separate pot, boil water. Add 2 cups of asparagus and 1.5 cups of peas, cooking for 2-3 minutes. Plunge into an ice bath to stop cooking and drain.
  4. In a large bowl, combine the cooled pasta, blanched asparagus, peas, marinated red onions, chopped pistachios, and chopped celery. Fold in California Ripe Olives and fresh herbs.
  5. Gradually pour the dressing over the ingredients, tossing to coat. Adjust seasoning, then mix in crumbled feta and red pepper flakes.
  6. Serve immediately or chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to enhance flavors.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 40gProtein: 12gFat: 18gSaturated Fat: 3gPolyunsaturated Fat: 6gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 15mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 300mgFiber: 5gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 15IUVitamin C: 30mgCalcium: 10mgIron: 10mg

Notes

Letting the salad rest enhances flavors, making it even more delightful.

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