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Green Pasta Salad with Edible Flowers


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  • Author: Julia
  • Total Time: 20 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings
  • Diet: Vegan

Description

This vibrant Green Pasta Salad with Edible Flowers is a fresh and visually stunning dish perfect for spring and summer gatherings. Made with fusilli pasta, fresh herbs, spinach, and a creamy herb sauce, this salad is both flavorful and easy to make. Topped with edible flowers for a beautiful finish, it’s a perfect light dish or side to complement any meal.


Ingredients

360 g fusilli pasta (1213 oz) or other short pasta

100 g baby spinach leaves (3.5 oz)

23 spring onions

1 handful fresh parsley

12 sprigs fresh mint

1 sprig fresh marjoram

50 g pine nuts (2 oz), toasted

50 g Parmigiano cheese flakes (omit for vegan version; use vegetarian cheese for strict vegetarians)

Extra virgin olive oil, as required

Salt, to taste

Black pepper, to taste

Edible flowers, as desired


Instructions

  • Prepare the Pasta and Spring Onions:

    • Clean and trim the spring onions, removing the top green parts.

    • Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta until al dente. About 5 minutes before the pasta is done, add the spring onions to the pot.

    • Reserve a small amount of pasta cooking water, then drain the pasta and spring onions. Rinse under cold water to cool.

    • Place the pasta in a bowl, drizzle with 2 tablespoons of olive oil, and mix well.

  • Make the Sauce:

    • While the pasta cooks, wash and dry the parsley, marjoram, mint, and spinach leaves.

    • Toast the pine nuts in a dry pan for 1-2 minutes until golden brown.

    • In a blender, combine half of the spinach, fresh herbs, and some olive oil. Pulse a few times.

    • Add the blanched spring onions and a bit more olive oil. Pulse again.

    • Add half of the toasted pine nuts, salt, and pepper, and blend until combined. If needed, add more olive oil or reserved pasta water for a smoother consistency.

  • Assemble the Salad:

    • Mix the sauce into the cooled pasta.

    • Add the remaining pine nuts, spinach leaves, and Parmigiano cheese flakes.

    • Toss gently to combine.

    • Garnish with edible flowers before serving.

Notes

  • Protein Addition: Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas for extra protein.

  • Cheese Alternatives: Swap Parmigiano with feta or goat cheese for a different flavor.

  • Herb Substitutions: Experiment with basil, cilantro, or dill to suit your taste.

  • Pasta Shapes: Penne, rotini, or farfalle work well in this salad.

  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10 minutes
  • Category: Salad
  • Method: Boiling
  • Cuisine: Mediterranean