Go Back

Garlic Lemon Pasta Salad with Fresh Herbs

Course Salad
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings 6

Ingredients

  • 8 ounces dried noodles
  • 3 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon salt divided
  • 5 cloves garlic peeled and minced
  • cup chopped fresh cilantro
  • cup chopped fresh parsley
  • cup chopped fresh chives
  • cup chopped fresh dill
  • ½ large red onion thinly sliced (use a mandolin if available)
  • 2 teaspoons rice vinegar
  • 2 teaspoons red wine vinegar
  • 1.5 teaspoons lemon juice
  • 1.5 teaspoons Dijon mustard
  • 1 teaspoon honey
  • 1 tablespoon mayo
  • Zest from one small lemon
  • ¼ teaspoon freshly ground pepper
  • cup crumbled feta cheese
  • cup toasted pine nuts
  • 4 ounces fresh English peas or thawed frozen peas

Instructions

  • Boil a large pot of salted water. Cook pasta until al dente, then drain and rinse with cold water. Let excess water drip.
  • Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium/high heat. Add minced garlic, sprinkle with ¼ teaspoon salt, and sauté until golden. Set aside to cool.
  • For the dressing, whisk together rice vinegar, red wine vinegar, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, honey, mayo, lemon zest, and ½ teaspoon salt.
  • Slowly add cooled garlic and olive oil to the dressing while whisking.
  • Toss cooled pasta with the dressing in a large bowl.
  • Add fresh herbs, red onion, peas, and remaining salt (if needed) to the bowl and toss.
  • Top with feta, pine nuts, and pepper.
  • Serve immediately or chill in the refrigerator.

Notes

  • Sauteing garlic in olive oil creates a flavorful infusion for the dressing.
  • Feel free to mix and match your favorite fresh herbs.
  • Taste the dressing and salad as you go to adjust salt levels.