Introducing the delightful Honey-Dijon Pasta and Vegetable Salad, a vibrant medley of flavors and textures that’s as quick to prepare as it is delicious to devour. This recipe, brought to you by lovewithrecipes.com, epitomizes the perfect harmony of wholesome ingredients and zesty dressing, making it an ideal addition to your culinary repertoire, whether you’re hosting a potluck or seeking a satisfying meal in under 60 minutes.
Ingredients:
For the Salad:
- 1/2 pound penne pasta
- 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 cup cauliflower, chopped
- 1 cup broccoli, chopped
- 1 carrot, thinly sliced
- 1 celery stalk, thinly sliced
For Garnish (optional):
- Fresh herbs, such as parsley or chives
- Toasted sesame seeds
Instructions:
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Cook the Pasta:
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Prepare the Dressing:
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, honey, and freshly squeezed lemon juice until the ingredients are well combined and the dressing is smooth and creamy. Adjust the quantities to your taste preferences, adding more honey for sweetness or Dijon mustard for a tangy kick.
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Combine Pasta and Vegetables:
- In a large salad bowl, toss the cooked and cooled pasta with the chopped cauliflower, broccoli florets, thinly sliced carrot, and celery. The colorful array of vegetables not only adds vibrant hues to the salad but also provides a crunchy texture and a burst of nutrients.
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Dress and Chill:
- Pour the prepared honey-Dijon dressing over the pasta and vegetables, ensuring that every ingredient is evenly coated with the delectable dressing. Gently toss the salad until the dressing is distributed throughout.
- For optimal flavor development, cover the salad bowl and refrigerate it for at least 15 to 20 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together and the salad to chill thoroughly.
Serving Suggestions:
- Once chilled, garnish the Honey-Dijon Pasta and Vegetable Salad with a sprinkle of freshly chopped herbs, such as parsley or chives, to add a burst of freshness and visual appeal.
- For an extra layer of flavor and crunch, consider topping the salad with a handful of toasted sesame seeds or chopped nuts, such as almonds or walnuts.
- Serve the salad as a standalone dish for a light lunch or dinner option, or pair it with grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu for a satisfying and well-rounded meal.
Nutritional Information (per serving):
- Calories: 295.1
- Fat: 2g
- Saturated Fat: 0.2g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Sodium: 204mg
- Carbohydrates: 66.9g
- Fiber: 8g
- Sugar: 19.4g
- Protein: 5.9g
Recipe Notes:
- Feel free to customize this versatile salad recipe to suit your taste preferences and dietary needs. You can add or substitute vegetables, such as bell peppers, cherry tomatoes, or snap peas, to create your own signature variation of the dish.
- To make this recipe vegan-friendly, simply replace the mayonnaise with a vegan alternative or creamy plant-based yogurt.
- This Honey-Dijon Pasta and Vegetable Salad can be prepared in advance and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 to 3 days, making it a convenient option for meal prep or weekday lunches.
- For a gluten-free version of the salad, use your favorite gluten-free pasta variety in place of traditional penne pasta.
Indulge in the irresistible flavors and textures of this Honey-Dijon Pasta and Vegetable Salad, where each forkful is a celebration of freshness and wholesome goodness. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply craving a nutritious and satisfying meal, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Enjoy! 🥗✨