asian vegetable pasta salad
This is a variation of a recipe I created years ago that gave me an opportunity to participate in a cook off for Cooking Light magazine. I didn't win, but the recipe is still a winner in my book. Plus it's easy, with familiar ingredients and even the pickiest eaters like it. I sometimes serve this as a side with grilled meat, but also love to stuff lettuce leaves with this salad and enjoy it as a roll-up appetizer. Plus, any vegetables you like should work in this recipe. Try green beans, broccoli, or carrots. You can also add a tablespoon of peanut butter to the dressing.
Blue Ribbon Recipe
The combination of linguini with fresh vegetables creates a perfect balance of textures and flavors in this Asian vegetable pasta salad. We loved the tangy and savory dressing. It has a hint of sesame flavor and a kick from the chili oil. Don't skimp on the garnishes. They add extra layers of fresh and nutty flavors. We'll definitely be making this again. Meat or shrimp can be added for protein to make this a meal.
Ingredients
- 8 ounces linguini
- 8 ounces fresh sugar snap peas
- 2 cups thinly sliced celery
- 1 cup thinly sliced red bell pepper
- 1/2 cup sliced scallions
- DRESSING
- 1/4 cup rice wine vinegar
- 1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce
- 1 1/2 tablespoons toasted sesame oil
- 1 teaspoon spicy (chili) toasted sesame oil
- 2 teaspoons peeled fresh ginger, grated
- 1 clove garlic (large), grated
- 1/2 teaspoon granulated sugar
- 1 - Fresno chile, seeded and finely chopped (optional)
- GARNISHES - USE ANY OR ALL
- - chopped cilantro
- - dry roasted peanuts chopped
- - crushed black pepper
- - toasted sesame seeds or toasted almonds
- - bean sprouts
How To Make asian vegetable pasta salad
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Step 1Cook pasta according to package directions. Add the sugar snap peas during the last 2 minutes of cooking. Drain and rinse with cold water.
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Step 2Place cooled pasta/snap pea mixture in a large bowl. Stir in the celery, red pepper, and scallions.
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Step 3To make the dressing, put all ingredients into a small jar and shake to combine.
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Step 4Pour dressing over pasta/veggie mix, stir and refrigerate for a half hour or so. Garnish with some or all of suggested condiments.
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