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Lemon-Dijon Asparagus and Pea Macaroni Salad

Lemon-Dijon Asparagus and Pea Macaroni Salad Done Right

A vibrant and quick Lemon-Dijon Asparagus and Pea Macaroni Salad that's both satisfying and healthy, perfect for any gathering.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Chilling Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Salads
Cuisine: American
Calories: 300

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta
  • 8 oz Elbow Macaroni Pasta Feel free to swap it with gluten-free pasta.
For the Veggies
  • 1 cup Fresh Asparagus Remove tough ends before slicing.
  • 1 cup Frozen Peas No need to thaw.
  • 1/2 cup Sun-Dried Tomatoes Preferably marinated and roughly chopped.
For the Dressing
  • 1/2 cup Mayonnaise For a plant-based option, try Vegenaise.
  • 2 none Lemons (juice and zest) Zest is essential for extra zing.
  • 1 tbsp Dijon Mustard Use sparingly for desired flavor intensity.
  • 1 clove Garlic, minced Freshly minced is best.
  • 1 tsp Fine Sea Salt Adjust to taste.
  • 1/4 tsp Fresh Ground Pepper Add according to spice preference.
For Garnish
  • 1/4 cup Curly Parsley, finely chopped Chive flowers can be a lovely garnish too.
  • 2 tbsp Chives Substitute with other favorite herbs if desired.

Equipment

  • Large pot
  • Colander
  • Mixing bowl
  • Whisk

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil over high heat. Add the elbow macaroni and cook for 8–10 minutes until al dente. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
  2. During the last 4 minutes of cooking, add the sliced asparagus to the pot. Then, in the final minute, add the frozen peas. Drain everything together and let it cool.
  3. Immediately rinse the pasta and vegetables under cool running water to stop cooking. Transfer to a large mixing bowl and cool for about 10 minutes.
  4. Once cooled, fold in the sun-dried tomatoes. Cover and chill in the refrigerator for 15–20 minutes.
  5. In a separate bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, lemon juice, lemon zest, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, salt, and pepper until smooth.
  6. Pour the dressing over the chilled pasta and vegetables. Add parsley and chives, then toss gently to combine.
  7. Serve immediately or store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 300kcalCarbohydrates: 40gProtein: 8gFat: 12gSaturated Fat: 2gPolyunsaturated Fat: 4gMonounsaturated Fat: 5gCholesterol: 5mgSodium: 500mgPotassium: 350mgFiber: 4gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 20mgCalcium: 30mgIron: 2mg

Notes

Allow the salad to chill for at least 15-20 minutes to meld flavors. Customize with your favorite seasonal vegetables or add protein such as chickpeas.

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