Refreshing Whole Wheat Pasta Salad with Shrimp, Agretti, and Lime

Whole Wheat Pasta Salad with Agretti and Shrimp

Category: Pasta Dishes
Servings: 4
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes

Ingredients:

Instructions:

1. Prepare the ingredients:
   Begin by finely chopping the red onion and setting it aside. Rinse the agretti thoroughly, trimming off the tough ends. If you’re using fresh peas, blanch them briefly in boiling water for about 2-3 minutes until tender. Drain and set aside.

2. Cook the agretti and onion:
   In a large skillet, heat a generous drizzle of extra virgin olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until softened, about 2-3 minutes. Stir in the agretti and cook for another 5-7 minutes, allowing it to wilt and absorb the flavors. Add a couple of tablespoons of water to help create a little steam and prevent sticking. Season with a pinch of sea salt.

3. Cook the pasta:
   While the agretti cooks, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the whole wheat farfalle and cook according to the package instructions, usually about 10-12 minutes, until al dente. In the last few minutes of cooking, add the peas to the pot to warm through. Drain the pasta and peas, reserving a small cup of pasta water for later.

4. Prepare the shrimp:
   Peel and devein the shrimp, removing the shells. If using larger shrimp, you can cut them in half. In a separate pan, heat a small drizzle of olive oil over medium heat, then cook the shrimp for 2-3 minutes on each side until pink and opaque. Let them cool slightly before slicing them into halves or thirds.

5. Assemble the salad:
   In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta and peas with the agretti-onion mixture. Add the sliced shrimp and mix gently. Add the lime zest for a fresh, citrusy aroma, and toss everything together with a handful of fresh mint leaves. Season with black pepper and pink peppercorns to taste.

6. Final touches:
   Drizzle with extra virgin olive oil and give everything a final mix. If you find the salad a bit dry, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to achieve a smoother texture.

7. Chill and serve:
   Refrigerate the salad for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors meld together. Serve chilled as a refreshing, light pasta salad that’s perfect for a summer lunch or dinner.

Nutritional Information (per serving):

• Calories: 340 kcal
• Protein: 22g
• Carbohydrates: 38g
• Fat: 12g
• Fiber: 6g
• Sodium: 300mg

This Whole Wheat Pasta Salad with Agretti and Shrimp is a delightful mix of flavors and textures, combining the earthiness of agretti, the sweetness of shrimp, and the freshness of mint and lime. Perfect for a light yet satisfying meal, this dish is packed with nutrients from whole wheat pasta and fresh vegetables. The pink peppercorns add a touch of spice, while the mint gives it a refreshing twist, making this a perfect dish for any occasion, from a casual weeknight dinner to a special gathering. Enjoy this dish cold for the full flavor experience!