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Herby Spring Pasta Salad

Herby Spring Pasta Salad: Fresh, Flavorful, and Protein-Packed

Herby Spring Pasta Salad is a vibrant dish filled with seasonal veggies and protein, perfect for energizing lunches and gatherings.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Chilling Time 1 hour
Total Time 1 hour 40 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Salads
Cuisine: American
Calories: 350

Ingredients
  

Salad Base
  • 8 oz Mafalda Pasta (or penne/bow tie) Can use gluten-free pasta for GF option
  • 12 oz Organic Pork or Chicken Sausage Substitute with ground turkey or plant-based sausage
  • 4 cups Spinach Substitute with kale or arugula for variety
Flavor Boosters
  • 2 tbsp Extra Virgin Olive Oil Use sparingly if watching fat intake
  • 1 medium Onion Finely diced yellow or red onions
  • 2 cloves Minced Garlic Fresh is best for aroma
  • 1 cup Fresh Basil Feel free to substitute with parsley
Creaminess & Depth
  • 1/2 cup Pesto Opt for homemade for the healthiest choice
  • 1/2 cup Chicken Bone Broth (or any broth) Vegetable broth is a great vegetarian alternative
  • 2 tbsp Ghee Swap olive oil or regular butter for a different flavor
  • 1/4 cup Milk (cashew or regular) Any milk alternative can work here
Sweetness & Zest
  • 1 cup Frozen Peas Substitute with diced carrots or green beans if desired
  • 1 large Lemon (juice and zest) Essential for balancing flavors
Finishing Touches
  • 1/2 cup Grated Parmesan Omit for a dairy-free version if preferred
  • 1/4 cup Chives Green onions can be used as a substitute
  • Fresh Cracked Pepper & Sea Salt Essential for seasoning
  • 2 tbsp Fresh Dill Omit if not a favorite

Equipment

  • Large Skillet
  • large pot
  • colander

Method
 

Cooking Instructions
  1. In a large skillet over medium heat, warm 2 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil. Add your choice of organic pork or chicken sausage, breaking it apart with a spatula. Cook for about 5-7 minutes until golden brown and cooked through, seasoning with sea salt and fresh cracked pepper. Once done, remove the protein from the skillet and set aside.
  2. In the same skillet, add the diced onion and sauté for approximately 3-4 minutes, or until it becomes translucent. Stir occasionally, then add the cooked sausage back into the skillet.
  3. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once boiling, add the mafalda pasta and cook until al dente—around 8-10 minutes. When done, drain the pasta and set aside.
  4. In the now-empty skillet, add 2 minced garlic cloves and sauté for about 1 minute until aromatic. Mix in 1/2 cup of pesto, 1/2 cup of chicken broth, 1/4 cup of milk, and 2 tablespoons of ghee. Allow to simmer for 3-5 minutes until slightly thickened.
  5. Stir in the sautéed protein and onions, followed by the cooked pasta, 1 cup of frozen peas, zest and juice of 1 lemon, 2 cups of fresh spinach, and 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese. Season generously with pepper and sea salt to taste.
  6. Once well combined, remove from heat. Garnish with chopped chives and additional Parmesan if desired. Serve warm or cool to room temperature.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 20gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 4gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 50mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 400mgFiber: 5gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 1500IUVitamin C: 25mgCalcium: 200mgIron: 2mg

Notes

Chill for at least an hour before serving for enhanced flavors. Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 2 months.

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