Sunday, March 23, 2014

Asparagus & Tomato Pasta Salad


I told y'all I love Asparagus! Adding a variety of Asparagus dishes to the ones I already enjoy just seemed like a win-win to me. More ways to eat and enjoy it is always a good thing.



This Asparagus and Tomato Pasta Salad uses a dressing mix of Balsamic Vinegar and Dijon Mustard to give it a nice little kick. Use the freshest Asparagus you can buy when preparing this dish.

What will you need to make Asparagus and Tomato Pasta Salad?

  • 3 cups uncooked rotini or penne pasta
  • 1 lb fresh asparagus
  • 1/4 cup oil of your choice
  • 2 tbsp balsamic vinegar
  • 1 tbsp dijon mustard
  • 1-14.5 oz can petite diced tomatoes drained or 2 cups diced fresh tomatoes
  • garlic powder, salt and pepper



RECIPE
Ingredients
3 cups uncooked rotini or penne pasta
1 lb. fresh asparagus, cut into 1/2-1-inch pieces, discarding woody ends (about 2 cups)
1/4 cup oil (your choice)
2 tbls. balsamic vinegar
1 tbls. dijon mustard
1/2 tsp. garlic powder
1/4 tsp. salt
1/4 tsp. course-ground black pepper
1 -14.5 oz can petite diced tomatoes, drained (or 2 fresh tomatoes cut into small pieces, approx. 2 cups)

Method

Cook pasta according to package directions, adding asparagus during the last 2 minutes of cooking. Rinse with cold water and drain well.

In a small bowl add oil, balsamic vinegar, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, salt and pepper; whisk well until blended. In a large bowl toss pasta, asparagus and tomatoes with dressing mixing well.

Refrigerate at least 2 hours before serving to blend flavors. This is a great fresh pasta salad, good by itself, or served as a side dish to grilled meats.

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Enjoy,
Mary

© Cooking with Mary and Friends. Unauthorized use and/or duplication of this material without express and written permission from this blog’s author and/or owner is strictly prohibited. Excerpts and links may be used, provided that full and clear credit is given to Cooking with Mary and Friends with appropriate and specific direction to the original content.ix all ingredients in a large sauce pan. Stir to combine and bring to a low boil over medium heat.