Hey y’all! Today we’re whipping up something delicious and healthy that’ll make your taste buds dance. This Asian Pasta Salad is a perfect side dish or a quick lunch, and the best part? It’s mayo-free and light, so you can enjoy it without the guilt. Let’s dive right in!
Asian Pasta Salad
Get ready for a burst of flavor in every bite. This recipe is simple, quick, and packs a punch of nutrition. Here’s what you need:
Ingredients:
- 8 oz whole wheat pasta
- 1 cup bell peppers, diced (red, yellow, or green)
- 1 cup shredded carrots
- 1 cup snap peas, trimmed
- 1/4 cup green onions, chopped
- 1/4 cup cilantro, chopped
- 1/2 cup edamame, shelled
- 1/4 cup soy sauce (low sodium)
- 2 tbsp sesame oil
- 1 tbsp rice vinegar
- 1 tbsp honey or maple syrup
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- Sesame seeds for garnish
Instructions:
- Start by cooking your whole wheat pasta according to the package instructions. Once done, drain and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process.
- While the pasta is cooking, chop up all your fresh veggies: bell peppers, carrots, snap peas, green onions, and cilantro. Trust me, it’s these fresh ingredients that give this salad its crunch and flavor!
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, edamame, and all those lovely chopped veggies.
- Now, it’s time to whip up the dressing. In a small bowl, mix together the soy sauce, sesame oil, rice vinegar, honey (or maple syrup), and minced garlic. Stir it well!
- Pour the dressing over your pasta and veggie mixture. Toss it all together until everything is nicely coated in that tasty goodness.
- Let the salad chill in the fridge for at least 30 minutes. This allows all those flavors to blend beautifully!
- Before serving, sprinkle with sesame seeds for that extra crunch. You can also adjust the flavors to your liking—add more soy, a dash of pepper, or even a squeeze of lime if you’re feeling fancy!
And there you have it, folks! A vibrant, healthy Asian Pasta Salad that’s ready to impress. Serve it up for your next gathering, or keep it handy for an on-the-go lunch. It’s good for you and oh so satisfying. Enjoy!