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 (12–13 oz) or other short pasta
100 g baby spinach leaves (3.5 oz)
2–3 spring onions
1 handful fresh parsley
1–2 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
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Prepare the Pasta and Spring Onions:
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Clean and trim the spring onions, removing the top green parts.
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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.
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Reserve a small amount of pasta cooking water, then drain the pasta and spring onions. Rinse under cold water to cool.
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Place the pasta in a bowl, drizzle with 2 tablespoons of olive oil, and mix well.
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Make the Sauce:
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While the pasta cooks, wash and dry the parsley, marjoram, mint, and spinach leaves.
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Toast the pine nuts in a dry pan for 1-2 minutes until golden brown.
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In a blender, combine half of the spinach, fresh herbs, and some olive oil. Pulse a few times.
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Add the blanched spring onions and a bit more olive oil. Pulse again.
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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.
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Assemble the Salad:
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Mix the sauce into the cooled pasta.
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Add the remaining pine nuts, spinach leaves, and Parmigiano cheese flakes.
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Toss gently to combine.
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Garnish with edible flowers before serving.
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Notes
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Protein Addition: Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas for extra protein.
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Cheese Alternatives: Swap Parmigiano with feta or goat cheese for a different flavor.
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Herb Substitutions: Experiment with basil, cilantro, or dill to suit your taste.
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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