DESCRIPTION OF VERDE VORTEX PASTA SALAD
Verde Vortex Pasta Salad is a delightful summertime dish that combines the wholesome goodness of quinoa pasta with the freshness of seasonal vegetables and a zesty lemon balsamic dressing. Perfect for picnics, potlucks, or as a refreshing side dish, this salad offers a colourful and nutritious option that pleases both the eye and the palate.
RECIPE CATEGORY
- Brunch, Side
SERVING SIZE
- Serves 8
CUISINE
- Mediterranean
PREPARATION/TECHNIQUES
- Boil, No-Cook
OCCASION/HOLIDAY
- Summer, Picnic, BBQ
SPECIAL CONSIDERATION/DIETARY CONCERNS
- Healthy, Vegetarian, Low Fat, High Fibre
DISH TYPE
- Salad
INGREDIENTS FOR VERDE VORTEX PASTA SALAD
- Quinoa Pasta (Cavatappi): 16 oz
- Cherry Tomatoes: 2 cups, halved
- Corn: 1 1/2 cups, fresh or frozen
- Avocado: 1, diced
- Fresh Basil: 1/2 cup, chopped
- Lemon Balsamic Dressing: Prepared with lemon juice, zest, balsamic vinegar, olive oil, honey, salt, and pepper
FULL NUTRITIONAL INFORMATION
- Calories: 320 per serving
- Total Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Sodium: 180mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 49g
- Dietary Fiber: 6g
- Sugars: 5g
- Protein: 9g
PREPARATION FOR VERDE VORTEX PASTA SALAD
- Cook Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add cavatappi pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool.
- Prepare Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together lemon juice, lemon zest, balsamic vinegar, olive oil, honey, salt, and pepper.
- Combine Salad Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine cooled pasta, halved cherry tomatoes, corn, diced avocado, and chopped fresh basil.
- Dress and Toss: Pour the dressing over the salad and gently toss to combine all the ingredients evenly.
- Chill: Refrigerate the salad for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow flavours to meld.
PREP TIME
- 20 minutes
COOKING TIME
- 10 minutes
TIPS FOR VERDE VORTEX PASTA SALAD
- For a protein boost, add grilled chicken or shrimp.
- Use whole-grain pasta for an extra fibre boost.
VARIATIONS
- Gluten-Free Option: Substitute quinoa pasta with your favourite gluten-free pasta.
- Add Cheese: Sprinkle with crumbled feta or goat cheese for added flavour.
PREPPING AND STORAGE GUIDE FOR VERDE VORTEX PASTA SALAD
- Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- It is best if enjoyed fresh, but flavours develop more overnight.
Verde Vortex Pasta Salad is a lively, nutritious dish that brings a burst of summer flavour to your table. Easy to prepare and universally appealing, it is a versatile dish that adapts to various dietary preferences and occasions. Enjoy the fresh, bold flavours of this delightful summer salad!