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Vibrant Green Goddess Pasta Shell Salad

Irresistible Vibrant Green Goddess Pasta Shell Salad Recipe

A refreshing Vibrant Green Goddess Pasta Shell Salad with creamy vegan dressing, perfect for summer picnics.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Cooling Time 5 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Salad, Vegan
Calories: 320

Ingredients
  

Dressing
  • 2 large Lemons Juice only, fresh preferred
  • 1/2 cup Olive Oil Extra-virgin for enhanced flavor
  • 1 cup Basil Leaves Fresh, or substitute with cilantro
  • 2 cups Baby Spinach Leaves Can use kale as a substitute
  • 2 cloves Garlic Raw for brightness, roasted for milder flavor
  • 1 cup Raw Cashews Soaked for smoother texture
  • 1/4 cup Nutritional Yeast Can substitute with Parmesan cheese
  • to taste Salt & Black Pepper Adjust during preparation
Pasta Salad
  • 8 ounces Pasta Shells Medium shells preferred
  • 1 cup Frozen Peas Can substitute with fresh peas
  • 1 cup Asparagus Chopped, can replace with broccoli or green beans
  • 1 bulb Fennel Chopped, can be omitted or replaced with celery
  • 1/2 cup Green Olives Sliced
  • 1/4 cup Chives Minced
  • 1/4 cup Scallions Sliced
  • 1 tablespoon Reserved Lemon Zest Fresh lime zest can be substituted

Equipment

  • Large Pot
  • High-speed blender
  • Colander
  • Large mixing bowl

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Boil Water: Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil over high heat.
  2. Blend Dressing: In a high-speed blender, combine lemon juice, olive oil, basil, spinach, garlic, cashews, nutritional yeast, salt, and pepper.
  3. Cook Pasta: Add the medium pasta shells to the boiling pot and cook according to package instructions, around 8-10 minutes.
  4. Drain and Cool: Drain the pasta and vegetables, rinse under cool water, and let them cool.
  5. Combine Salad: In a large bowl, mix cooled pasta shells, peas, asparagus, fennel, olives, chives, scallions, and lemon zest.
  6. Dress Salad: Pour the creamy dressing over the salad and gently toss until coated.
  7. Serve or Chill: Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 24 hours before serving.

Nutrition

Serving: 1cupCalories: 320kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 10gFat: 12gSaturated Fat: 1gPolyunsaturated Fat: 5gMonounsaturated Fat: 6gSodium: 250mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 7gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 400IUVitamin C: 25mgCalcium: 80mgIron: 2mg

Notes

Soak cashews for at least 2 hours for creamier dressing. Use fresh herbs for vibrant flavor.

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