Name: Asparagus Pasta Salad
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 12 oz penne pasta, uncooked; 1 bunch asparagus, trimmed and cut into 2-inch pieces; 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 1/4 cup purple onion, thinly sliced; 3/4 cup plain Greek yogurt; 2 tbsp lemon juice; 2 tbsp olive oil; 2 tbsp parsley, freshly chopped; 1 tsp sugar; 1 tsp lemon zest; Salt and pepper, to taste

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This Asparagus Pasta Salad is a light, fresh, and flavorful dish that makes spring and summer meals feel a little more special. It brings together tender-crisp asparagus, juicy tomatoes, and red onion tossed with pasta in a creamy Greek yogurt dressing flavored with lemon and parsley. Whether I’m hosting a backyard barbecue or just need a make-ahead lunch, this salad is one I always come back to.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it’s incredibly refreshing and easy to make with just a handful of ingredients. The crisp asparagus contrasts beautifully with the juicy tomatoes and smooth pasta, all pulled together by a creamy, tangy dressing that’s surprisingly light thanks to Greek yogurt. It’s also perfect for making ahead, so I can enjoy it cold straight from the fridge. Best of all, it pairs well with nearly any main dish, from grilled meats to seafood. Asparagus Pasta Salad

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

penne pasta, uncooked
asparagus, trimmed and cut into 2-inch pieces
cherry tomatoes, halved
purple onion, thinly sliced

For the dressing:
plain Greek yogurt
lemon juice
olive oil
parsley, freshly chopped
sugar
lemon zest
salt and pepper, to taste

Directions

I start by boiling the pasta in a large pot of water. After about 12 minutes, I add the chopped asparagus and let it cook for another 2 to 3 minutes—just enough to keep it bright and slightly crisp.
I drain everything and rinse with cool water to stop the cooking. Then I place the pasta and asparagus in a large bowl.
I mix in the cherry tomatoes and thinly sliced red onion.
For the dressing, I whisk together Greek yogurt, lemon juice and zest, olive oil, chopped parsley, sugar, salt, and pepper in a small bowl.
I pour the dressing over the salad and toss until every ingredient is coated evenly.
I cover the salad and chill it in the fridge until it’s time to serve. Just before serving, I give it a good stir.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 6 people.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes

Variations

I sometimes like to switch things up depending on what I have in the fridge. Bowtie or shell pasta works just as well as penne. If I want a bit more protein, I’ll toss in grilled chicken or chickpeas. Swapping the Greek yogurt for sour cream gives the dressing a slightly richer flavor. And if I’m craving more crunch, a handful of toasted pine nuts or slivered almonds does the trick.

Storage/Reheating

I store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Since it’s a cold pasta salad, there’s no need to reheat it. If the dressing thickens in the fridge, I stir in a splash of olive oil or lemon juice before serving to freshen it up.

FAQs

How do I keep the asparagus from overcooking?

I add the asparagus to the boiling pasta just in the last few minutes of cooking, so it stays tender but crisp. Then I rinse it with cold water to stop the cooking instantly.

Can I make this pasta salad ahead of time?

Yes, I often prepare it a day ahead and keep it covered in the fridge. It actually tastes better after sitting for a few hours because the flavors meld together.

Can I use frozen asparagus?

Fresh asparagus works best for texture, but if I use frozen, I make sure to thaw and drain it well before adding it to the salad.

What can I use instead of Greek yogurt?

Sour cream or even a light mayo will work if I want a creamier texture or don’t have yogurt on hand.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

It’s not gluten-free by default, but I can easily make it so by using a gluten-free pasta.

Conclusion

This Asparagus Pasta Salad is a celebration of fresh flavors and simple ingredients. It’s quick to prepare, endlessly versatile, and always a crowd-pleaser. Whether I’m enjoying it on a sunny patio or packing it up for a picnic, it never fails to brighten my meal.