Green Goddess Pasta Salad

Total Time Prep: 20 min. Cook: 15 min. + cooling
Yield 8 servings
This fresh and herb-flavored green goddess pasta salad is a tasty way to celebrate the arrival of warmer weather.

Ingredients

  • 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
  • 1 cup fresh basil leaves
  • 1/4 cup packed fresh parsley sprigs
  • 1/4 cup fresh tarragon sprigs
  • 1/4 cup fresh cilantro leaves
  • 2 garlic cloves
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons lemon juice
  • 1 teaspoon grated lemon zest
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon pepper
  • PASTA SALAD:
  • 16 ounces uncooked orecchiette pasta
  • 1 cup frozen peas
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 pound cut fresh asparagus (1-inch pieces)
  • 2 cups fresh arugula
  • 1 cup fresh mozzarella pearls
  • 1 tablespoon minced chives

Directions

  1. Place the yogurt, herbs, garlic, olive oil, lemon juice and zest, salt and pepper in a food processor; puree until smooth. Set aside.
  2. Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package instructions. During the last 2 minutes of cooking, add the frozen peas. Drain the pasta and peas; allow to cool slightly.
  3. Meanwhile, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add asparagus; cook until tender and lightly browned on the edges, 7-8 minutes, flipping the asparagus halfway. Transfer to a large shallow bowl; let slightly cool.
  4. Add the pasta, peas, arugula and mozzarella pearls to the bowl. Add half of the dressing; toss to coat. Add additional dressing, as desired. Top with chopped chives to serve.

Nutrition Facts

1 serving: 389 calories, 15g fat (7g saturated fat), 30mg cholesterol, 229mg sodium, 49g carbohydrate (5g sugars, 4g fiber), 16g protein.