Bright, fresh, and bursting with flavor, this Pasta Salad with Tomatoes and Peas is the perfect combination of simplicity and charm. Featuring tender pasta, juicy cherry tomatoes, sweet peas, and aromatic basil, this dish is dressed in a tangy homemade vinaigrette made with olive oil, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, and a touch of honey for balance. A sprinkle of shredded Parmesan adds a rich, savory finish. Ready in just 20 minutes, this easy recipe is ideal for a light lunch, a side dish for summer barbecues, or a make-ahead meal thatβs deliciously satisfying. Serve it chilled or at room temperature to let the vibrant, fresh flavors shine!
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool the pasta quickly, then set aside to drain completely.
While the pasta is cooking, prepare the vegetables. Halve the cherry tomatoes and dice the red onion. If the peas are frozen, blanch them in boiling water for 1-2 minutes, then drain and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, halved cherry tomatoes, thawed peas, diced red onion, and chopped basil.
In a small bowl or jar, prepare the vinaigrette. Whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, honey, salt, and black pepper until emulsified.
Pour the vinaigrette over the pasta salad ingredients. Toss gently but thoroughly to coat everything evenly.
Sprinkle the shredded Parmesan cheese over the salad and mix lightly.
Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. You can add more salt, pepper, or a dash of vinegar for extra tanginess.
Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. Serve chilled or at room temperature. Enjoy!
Calories |
1238 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 59.1 g | 76% | |
| Saturated Fat | 15.2 g | 76% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.0 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 60 mg | 20% | |
| Sodium | 2110 mg | 92% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 129.3 g | 47% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 22.1 g | 79% | |
| Total Sugars | 31.6 g | ||
| Protein | 49.1 g | 98% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.3 mcg | 2% | |
| Calcium | 855 mg | 66% | |
| Iron | 8.6 mg | 48% | |
| Potassium | 1639 mg | 35% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.