This Herby Spring Pasta Salad is a celebration of fresh flavors and nourishing ingredients. The combination of bright lemon zest, creamy Parmesan, and fragrant basil creates a dish that is both refreshing and satisfying. With a touch of pesto, every bite is bursting with herby goodness, while the addition of protein makes it a well-rounded meal. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a springtime gathering, this dish comes together in just 30 minutes. Whether you’re enjoying it warm or as a chilled pasta salad, the vibrant flavors and wholesome ingredients will have everyone coming back for seconds!
Full Recipe:
Ingredients:
Pasta Salad:
- 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 1 lb organic pork or chicken sausage (or substitute ground chicken/turkey)
- 1 small onion, diced
- 1 box pasta (gluten-free Mafalda, bow tie, or penne)
- 2 cups fresh spinach
- ¼ cup fresh basil, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 tbsp pesto
- ½ cup chicken bone broth (or any broth)
- ½ cup milk (cashew or regular)
- 1 tbsp ghee
- 1 cup frozen peas
- 1 lemon (zested and juiced)
- ½ cup grated Parmesan
- 2 tbsp chopped chives
- Fresh cracked pepper & sea salt to taste
Directions:
- Heat olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add sausage, breaking it into crumbles. Cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Remove and set aside.
- In the same pan, sauté diced onion until translucent, about 3 minutes.
- Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water before draining.
- Add spinach, basil, and minced garlic to the pan with onions. Cook for 1-2 minutes until wilted.
- Stir in pesto, bone broth, and milk. Let simmer for 2 minutes.
- Add the cooked sausage back to the pan along with cooked pasta, ghee, and peas. Stir well.
- Squeeze in lemon juice, then toss in Parmesan and chives. Stir until creamy. If needed, add reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce.
- Season with sea salt and cracked pepper to taste. Serve warm with extra Parmesan on top.
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 20 minutes | Total Time: 30 minutes
Kcal: 450 kcal | Servings: 4
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick & Easy: This dish comes together in just 30 minutes, making it a perfect choice for busy weeknights or meal prep.
- Packed with Protein: The addition of organic chicken or pork sausage (or even ground turkey) makes this a protein-rich dish that will keep you full longer.
- Gluten-Free Friendly: Using a high-quality gluten-free pasta such as Jovial’s Mafalda or a similar variety ensures that those with dietary restrictions can still enjoy a delicious pasta dish.
- Vibrant & Fresh: With lemon zest, fresh basil, and chives, this dish bursts with bright, refreshing flavors that make every bite delightful.
- Creamy & Comforting: While lighter than a traditional creamy pasta, the addition of milk, ghee, and Parmesan provides a luscious, velvety finish without feeling heavy.
The Power of Fresh Ingredients
One of the standout features of this pasta salad is its emphasis on fresh, wholesome ingredients. Unlike store-bought pasta salads that often rely on artificial preservatives, this recipe highlights the natural flavors of herbs, fresh vegetables, and quality proteins.
Herbs & Citrus for a Flavor Boost
The combination of fresh basil, chives, and lemon zest takes this pasta salad to the next level. Fresh herbs add depth and brightness, while lemon zest provides a hint of citrus that enhances the overall taste.
Pesto: The Ultimate Game-Changer
Pesto is a key player in this dish, offering a rich, nutty, and herbaceous flavor that coats the pasta beautifully. Whether you use homemade pesto or a high-quality store-bought version, its presence elevates the dish with a distinct Italian-inspired flair.
Spinach & Peas: A Nutrient-Packed Addition
Adding fresh spinach and peas not only enhances the dish’s color but also provides essential vitamins and minerals. These vegetables contribute fiber, antioxidants, and a slight sweetness that balances the savory elements.
Health Benefits of This Dish
This Herby Spring Pasta Salad is more than just a delicious meal it’s packed with health benefits that make it a great addition to a balanced diet.
1. High in Protein
By incorporating organic sausage or ground turkey, this dish becomes a protein powerhouse. Protein is essential for muscle repair, satiety, and overall health, making this meal a great option for those looking to maintain a balanced diet.
2. Rich in Healthy Fats
With extra virgin olive oil, ghee, and Parmesan, this pasta provides healthy fats that support brain function, heart health, and nutrient absorption. These fats also contribute to the dish’s creamy and satisfying texture.
3. Packed with Fiber & Antioxidants
The addition of spinach and peas means that this meal is full of fiber, iron, and antioxidants. Fiber helps with digestion and keeps you full longer, while antioxidants fight inflammation and support overall well-being.
4. Naturally Gluten-Free (if using GF pasta)
For those with gluten sensitivities or celiac disease, choosing a high-quality gluten-free pasta ensures that they can enjoy this dish without digestive discomfort.
Variations & Customizations
One of the best things about this Herby Spring Pasta Salad is its versatility. You can customize it based on dietary preferences, available ingredients, or seasonal variations. Here are some ways to switch it up:
1. Make It Vegetarian
Skip the sausage and add roasted chickpeas, tofu, or tempeh for a plant-based protein boost. You can also increase the amount of spinach and peas for extra fiber and nutrients.
2. Try a Different Protein
If you’re not a fan of pork or chicken sausage, swap it out for:
- Grilled chicken breast for a leaner option
- Shrimp or salmon for a seafood twist
- Crispy bacon for a smoky depth of flavor
3. Add More Vegetables
Feel free to experiment with different veggies, such as:
- Roasted cherry tomatoes for a juicy burst of sweetness
- Asparagus or zucchini for a springtime touch
- Artichokes or sun-dried tomatoes for a Mediterranean flair
4. Make It Dairy-Free
If you’re avoiding dairy, substitute:
- Nutritional yeast for Parmesan
- Coconut or almond milk for regular milk
- Vegan butter instead of ghee
5. Serve It Cold
While this dish is best enjoyed warm, it can also be chilled and served as a cold pasta salad. Simply refrigerate after cooking and add a bit of extra olive oil before serving to refresh the flavors.
Perfect Pairings: What to Serve With This Pasta
This Herby Spring Pasta Salad is hearty enough to be served on its own, but if you want to complete the meal, here are a few great pairing options:
- A Fresh Side Salad – A crisp arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette balances the richness of the pasta.
- Garlic Bread – A warm slice of sourdough or gluten-free garlic bread makes for the perfect companion.
- A Light Soup – A bowl of tomato basil soup or a simple broth-based soup complements the flavors beautifully.
- A Glass of Wine – If you enjoy wine, a crisp white wine such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio pairs wonderfully with the herbal notes in the dish.
Conclusion:
This Herby Spring Pasta Salad is more than just a quick meal it’s a celebration of fresh ingredients, balanced flavors, and wholesome nutrition. Whether you’re looking for a weeknight dinner, a meal prep option, or a crowd-pleasing dish for a gathering, this pasta salad checks all the boxes.
By combining the creaminess of Parmesan, the brightness of lemon, the heartiness of sausage, and the herbal notes of pesto, this dish brings together the best of Italian-inspired comfort food with a light, springtime twist. It’s easy to customize, packed with nutrients, and incredibly satisfying.
