Ingredients
Salad
- 1 pound pasta, cooked
- Kosher salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 pound asparagus, woody stems removed and cut into thirds
- 1 pint cherry tomatoes, quartered
- 4 green onions, thinly sliced
- 8 ounces white cheddar or fontina cheese, cubed
- ¼ cup chopped fresh herbs (basil and parsley)
Honey Mustard Dressing
- ¼ cup apple cider vinegar
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- 2 garlic cloves, finely minced or pressed
- Kosher salt and pepper, to taste
- ½ cup extra virgin olive oil
Instructions
- Cook Pasta: Bring a pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to the package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Cook Asparagus: Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the asparagus along with a pinch of salt and pepper. Cook, tossing often, until the asparagus is bright green and slightly softened but retains a bit of crunch, then turn off the heat.
- Make Dressing: In a bowl, whisk together apple cider vinegar, honey, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Slowly stream in olive oil while whisking vigorously until the dressing emulsifies. This can be prepared ahead and refrigerated for up to 2 days.
- Combine Salad: In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, sautéed asparagus, cherry tomatoes, green onions, and cubed cheese. Pour the honey mustard dressing over and toss well to coat everything evenly.
- Season and Add Herbs: Taste the salad and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed. Stir in the fresh chopped herbs just before serving to maintain their bright flavor.
- Serve or Store: Serve immediately or refrigerate for 2 to 3 days. If making in advance, add the fresh herbs right before serving for best freshness.
- Enjoy: Serve chilled or at room temperature as a vibrant and flavorful pasta salad perfect for any occasion.
Notes
- For best texture, avoid overcooking the asparagus; it should remain slightly crisp.
- The salad is ideal for meal prep and can be stored refrigerated for up to 3 days.
- Adding fresh herbs just before serving keeps their flavors fresh and aromatic.
- This salad can be customized with your choice of cheese or additional vegetables.
- Use gluten-free pasta if a gluten-free diet is needed.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
