Creamy Lemon-Dijon Asparagus Penne Salad
Elevate your pasta salad experience with this Creamy Lemon-Dijon Asparagus Penne Salad. Bursting with fresh flavors, this dish combines tender penne pasta and vibrant asparagus in a light, creamy dressing made with zesty lemon juice, Dijon mustard, and a hint of garlic. The addition of scallions and sharp cheddar cheese adds a delightful crunch and richness. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or as a side dish for grilled chicken or fish, this salad is easy to make and satisfying, making it a hit at any gathering. With its subtle yet tangy flavor profile, it’s a refreshing take on traditional pasta salads that will have everyone coming back for more!
6
Servings
300
Calories
13
Ingredients
Ingredients
penne pasta
10 ounces (uncooked)
asparagus
2 lbs (ends removed and cut into 2-inch pieces on a diagonal)
scallion
1/2 cup (cut on a diagonal into 1-inch pieces)
sharp cheddar cheese
1/2 cup (grated)
kosher salt
1 tablespoon (for cooking pasta)
lemon
1/2 (thinly sliced)
mayonnaise
4 tablespoons (none)
chicken broth
4 tablespoons (none)
lemon juice
2 tablespoons (freshly squeezed)
Dijon mustard
3 teaspoons (none)
minced garlic
2 teaspoons (none)
ground black pepper
1 teaspoon (none)
kosher salt
1 teaspoon (for seasoning the dish)
Instructions
1
In a medium bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, chicken broth, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, black pepper, and kosher salt to prepare the creamy dressing. Set aside.
2
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook according to package instructions.
3
About 3 minutes before the pasta is al dente, add the asparagus pieces to the boiling water.
4
Once both the pasta and asparagus are cooked, drain well and rinse briefly under cold water to stop the cooking process.
5
In a large mixing bowl, combine the warm pasta and asparagus with the creamy dressing, tossing gently to coat.
6
Fold in the scallions and additional salt and pepper if desired, mixing until evenly distributed.
7
Serve the salad garnished with grated sharp cheddar cheese and lemon slices for a fresh touch. Enjoy your delicious and colorful salad!
Nutrition Information
11.6g
Fat
36.7g
Carbs
5g
Protein
3.3g
Fiber
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Creamy Lemon-Dijon Asparagus Penne Salad?
It is a refreshing pasta salad that combines tender penne and fresh asparagus with a zesty, creamy dressing made of lemon, Dijon mustard, and garlic.
What are the main ingredients in the dressing?
The dressing is made by whisking together mayonnaise, chicken broth, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, black pepper, and kosher salt.
When should I add the asparagus to the pasta water?
Add the asparagus pieces to the boiling water about 3 minutes before the penne pasta reaches the al dente stage.
How many servings does this recipe provide?
This recipe yields approximately 6 servings.
What is the calorie count per serving?
Each serving of this pasta salad contains about 300 calories.
Is this recipe vegetarian-friendly?
While it contains chicken broth, you can easily make it vegetarian by substituting the chicken broth with vegetable broth.
How should I prepare the asparagus?
Remove the tough ends and cut the stalks into 2-inch pieces on a diagonal before cooking.
What kind of cheese is recommended for garnishing?
The recipe calls for 1/2 cup of grated sharp cheddar cheese to add richness and flavor.
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, while penne is suggested, other short pasta shapes like rotini, fusilli, or farfalle would work well.
How do I stop the pasta and asparagus from overcooking?
After draining the cooked pasta and asparagus, rinse them briefly under cold water to stop the cooking process.
What is the nutritional fat content per serving?
Each serving contains approximately 11.6 grams of fat.
How much fiber is in one serving of this salad?
This recipe provides 3.3 grams of fiber per serving.
What are the carbohydrate and protein counts?
Each serving has 36.7 grams of carbohydrates and 5 grams of protein.
How much pasta is needed for this recipe?
You will need 10 ounces of uncooked penne pasta.
Can I serve this salad cold?
Yes, it can be served warm or chilled, making it a versatile option for different occasions.
What is the best way to cut the scallions?
The scallions should be cut on a diagonal into 1-inch pieces.
How much Dijon mustard is used?
The recipe requires 3 teaspoons of Dijon mustard for the dressing.
Is fresh lemon juice necessary?
Freshly squeezed lemon juice is recommended for the best zesty flavor, using 2 tablespoons for the dressing.
Can I prepare this dish in advance?
Yes, you can prepare it ahead of time; just toss it gently before serving and add the cheese garnish at the end.
How much garlic does the recipe call for?
The recipe uses 2 teaspoons of minced garlic.
What can I serve with this pasta salad?
It makes an excellent side dish for grilled chicken or fish, or can be enjoyed as a light main course.
Should I use kosher salt for the pasta water?
Yes, 1 tablespoon of kosher salt is recommended for the boiling water to season the pasta properly.
How much mayonnaise is used in the dressing?
The dressing uses 4 tablespoons of mayonnaise to create a light, creamy texture.
Is this recipe considered a quick meal?
Yes, it is tagged as a quick and easy recipe, perfect for busy weeknights.
Can I make this dairy-free?
To make it dairy-free, omit the cheddar cheese garnish or use a plant-based cheese alternative.
What is the purpose of the chicken broth in the dressing?
The chicken broth helps thin out the mayonnaise to create a lighter, pourable creamy consistency.
How much black pepper is needed?
The recipe calls for 1 teaspoon of ground black pepper.
What gives the salad its crunch?
The fresh scallions and the lightly cooked asparagus provide a delightful crunch to the dish.
Can I add other vegetables?
Yes, you could easily add peas, cherry tomatoes, or bell peppers to enhance the color and nutrients.
How do I garnish the final dish?
Garnish with grated sharp cheddar cheese and thin lemon slices for a fresh, decorative touch.