This colorful English Pea Pasta Salad is a delightful mix of fresh peas, pasta, and bright veggies. It’s light, tasty, and perfect for a picnic or a quick lunch!
I love how simple it is to make! Just cook the pasta, toss in the peas, and add your favorite dressing. It’s a great way to enjoy spring flavors any time of the year!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: Ziti or penne works great in this salad, but feel free to try rotini or farfalle for a fun twist. You can even use whole wheat or gluten-free pasta if that’s your preference.
English Peas: Fresh peas are delicious, but frozen peas are a handy substitute. They’re often sweeter and still retain their nutrients. No need to thaw; just add them directly to the boiling water with the pasta.
Fresh Mozzarella: I love using fresh mozzarella for its creamy texture. If you can’t find it, try using regular mozzarella, feta, or even ricotta for a different taste. Just make sure any cheese you choose can blend well with the dressing.
Mint: Fresh mint adds a bright flavor. If you’re not a fan or don’t have it, basil or parsley can be nice alternatives. Dried mint can work too, but use it sparingly as it’s more concentrated.
Mayonnaise & Sour Cream: These give the salad creaminess. If you want a lighter version, substitute with plain Greek yogurt or a dairy-free mayo. You can mix different ratios depending on your taste.
How Do I Properly Blanch Peas?
Blanching peas ensures they retain their sweet flavor and vibrant green color. This quick cooking method helps them stay crisp in the salad. Here’s how to do it:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. The salt helps enhance the peas’ flavor.
- Add your pasta to the boiling water and cook according to package instructions.
- About 2 minutes before the pasta is fully cooked, toss in the peas. This way, both will finish cooking together.
- Drain the pasta and peas and run them under cold water right away to stop the cooking process. This helps keep that bright green color!
Following these steps will make your salad look and taste amazing! Trust me, it’s worth the extra effort.
How to Make English Pea Pasta Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salad:
- 12 oz (340g) pasta (such as ziti or penne)
- 2 cups fresh or frozen English peas
- 4 oz (115g) fresh mozzarella cheese, cubed or torn into small pieces
- 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves, roughly chopped (plus extra for garnish)
For the Dressing:
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
- 1 tbsp lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
- 1 tsp lemon zest (optional)
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful pasta salad will take you about 15-20 minutes of prep time, plus an additional 30 minutes to chill in the fridge. So, just a little over 45 minutes total, and you’ll have a refreshing salad ready to impress your family and friends!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta and Peas:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once it’s boiling, add the pasta and cook it according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. Just 2 minutes before the pasta is done, throw in the English peas to blanch them. After everything is cooked, drain the pasta and peas together and rinse them under cold water to stop the cooking process and cool them down.
2. Make the Dressing:
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sour cream (or Greek yogurt), lemon juice, optional lemon zest, minced garlic, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Keep whisking until it’s smooth and creamy—this dressing is what brings all the flavors together!
3. Combine the Salad:
Now, add the cooled pasta and peas to the bowl with the dressing. Gently toss everything together until the pasta and peas are well coated with the creamy dressing. Next, fold in the fresh mozzarella pieces and chopped mint leaves, making sure everything is mixed well.
4. Taste and Adjust:
Take a moment to taste your salad! You can add more salt, pepper, or lemon juice if needed to enhance the flavors. Adjust it according to your taste!
5. Chill the Salad:
Once you’re happy with the taste, cover the salad and place it in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This chilling time allows all the flavors to meld together beautifully.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Before you serve, give the salad a gentle stir and garnish with extra whole or chopped mint leaves for a fresh look. This salad can be enjoyed cold or at room temperature, making it perfect for picnics, potlucks, or any gathering! Enjoy the fresh flavors!
Can I Use Other Types of Pasta?
Absolutely! While ziti or penne are great choices, feel free to use any pasta you prefer. Rotini, farfalle, or even whole grain options can work well. Just make sure to adjust cooking times according to the type of pasta you choose.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Leftover salad can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Be aware that the pasta might absorb the dressing, so you may want to add a little extra mayo or yogurt when you serve it again to refresh the flavor and creaminess.
Can I Make This Salad Vegan?
Yes! You can easily make this salad vegan by using plant-based mayonnaise and yogurt or a creamy avocado dressing. Additionally, you can substitute the fresh mozzarella with vegan cheese or simply omit it for a lighter option.
How Can I Add More Flavor?
If you want to amp up the flavor, consider adding ingredients like diced red onion, cherry tomatoes, or bell peppers for extra crunch and color. You can also try adding a dash of hot sauce or some chopped olives for a zesty kick!
