Arugula and Pea Pasta Salad

Name: Arugula and Pea Pasta Salad
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 8 oz pasta (fusilli or penne); 2 cups fresh arugula; 1 cup sweet peas (fresh or frozen); 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced; 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled; 3 tbsp olive oil; 1 tbsp lemon juice; 1 clove garlic, minced; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Nutritious Food Recipes

I absolutely love this Arugula and Pea Pasta Salad for its fresh and vibrant flavors. With tender pasta, peppery arugula, and sweet peas, it’s a delightful combination that is perfect for a light meal or a side dish. The dressing is zesty yet simple, allowing the ingredients to shine. Whether it's a sunny picnic or a casual dinner at home, this salad never fails to impress my family and friends. Preparing it is a breeze, making it a staple in my springtime recipes.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-02-12T09:54:19.578Z

During my last get-together, I decided to prepare this Arugula and Pea Pasta Salad, and it was a hit! I chose fresh ingredients straight from the market, making sure that my peas were sweet and bright. The combination of textures creates a light yet satisfying dish that’s perfect for any occasion.

I discovered that tossing the pasta while it's still warm helps the dressing cling beautifully, allowing every bite to be flavorful. The arugula adds a lovely peppery kick that contrasts nicely with the creamy dressing!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Fresh and vibrant flavors that brighten up any meal
Quick and easy preparation for busy days
Nutritious ingredients packed with vitamins and minerals

Understanding the Ingredients

The choice of pasta can significantly impact the overall experience of your Arugula and Pea Pasta Salad. Fusilli and penne both have ridges, allowing the dressing to cling beautifully, ensuring each bite is flavorful. If you prefer a gluten-free option, feel free to substitute with gluten-free pasta made from chickpeas or lentils, which also adds a unique nutty flavor to the dish.

Fresh ingredients are key in this recipe. Arugula provides a peppery bite that balances the sweetness of the peas and the creaminess of the feta. If fresh arugula isn't available, you can use baby spinach or kale, although they offer a milder flavor. Just be sure to chop the kale finely to enhance its tenderness when mixed with the other components.

Mastering the Dressing

The dressing for this salad is where the magic happens. The combination of olive oil and lemon juice creates a vibrant acidity that brightens the whole dish. For a more complex flavor, consider adding Dijon mustard or a teaspoon of honey to the dressing. It not only enhances the taste but also helps in emulsifying the ingredients, giving the dressing a creamy consistency.

If you're short on time, make the dressing in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to a week. Just remember to give it a good shake before using, as the ingredients may separate. This allows the flavors to develop further, resulting in a more harmonious taste when drizzled over the salad.

Serving and Storage Tips

Serving the Arugula and Pea Pasta Salad chilled can elevate its refreshing qualities, especially on warm days. Consider garnishing with extra crumbled feta or a sprinkle of lemon zest for an eye-catching presentation. For an added touch of flavor, you could also toss in some grilled shrimp or chicken for a heartier option, making this salad versatile enough for any meal.

If you have leftovers, store the salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Keep in mind that the arugula may wilt over time, so you can also add it fresh just before serving. Freezing this salad is not recommended due to the texture changes in the pasta and vegetables, but if you must, consider freezing the dressing separately for future use.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients for a delightful Arugula and Pea Pasta Salad:

Salad Ingredients

8 oz pasta (fusilli or penne)
2 cups fresh arugula
1 cup sweet peas (fresh or frozen)
1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled

Dressing Ingredients

3 tbsp olive oil
1 tbsp lemon juice
1 clove garlic, minced
Salt and pepper to taste

Once you have everything ready, you can start assembling your delicious salad.

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your Arugula and Pea Pasta Salad:

Cook the Pasta

In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process.

Prepare the Dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, salt, and pepper until well combined.

Combine Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, arugula, sweet peas, cherry tomatoes, red onion, and feta cheese. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine.

Serve

Serve immediately or refrigerate for about 30 minutes to let the flavors meld together. Enjoy your fresh pasta salad!

Enjoy your salad as a refreshing side dish or a satisfying main course!

Pro Tips

For added protein, consider mixing in grilled chicken or chickpeas. You can also substitute the feta cheese with a vegan alternative for a plant-based option.

Nutritional Benefits

This Arugula and Pea Pasta Salad is not just a treat for the palate but also a powerhouse of nutrition. Arugula is rich in vitamins A, C, and K, while peas provide protein and fiber, making this dish a balanced option. The addition of cherry tomatoes adds antioxidants, contributing to overall health benefits, which is a great boost for any spring meal.

If you're looking to reduce calories further, try using whole-wheat pasta, which not only gives a nutty flavor but also increases the fiber content. This option will help you feel fuller for longer, making the salad a perfect choice for a light lunch or dinner without sacrificing taste.

Exploring Variations

Embrace the versatility of this recipe by experimenting with various add-ins. Grilled vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers lend a smoky flavor that can enhance the complexity of the salad. Additionally, toasted nuts such as pine nuts or walnuts can introduce a delightful crunch that contrasts beautifully with the tender pasta.

If you're searching for a citrus twist, consider incorporating orange segments or a splash of balsamic vinegar to the dressing. This will create an unexpected flavor profile that could take your salad to new heights, appealing to those who love a bit of sweetness alongside their savory ingredients.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this salad in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the salad up to a day in advance. Just keep the dressing separate until you're ready to serve to avoid sogginess.

→ What pasta works best for this recipe?

Fusilli or penne pasta is ideal as they hold the dressing well, but feel free to use any pasta you like!

→ Can I use frozen peas?

Absolutely! If using frozen peas, just rinse them under warm water to thaw before adding to the salad.

→ What can I substitute for arugula?

You can replace arugula with baby spinach or kale if you prefer a milder flavor.