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Colorful bowl of Asian Pasta Salad with fresh vegetables and sesame dressing

Asian Pasta Salad

A vibrant and refreshing dish that combines pasta with crunchy vegetables and a tangy Asian-inspired dressing, perfect for gatherings or as a weeknight meal.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Course Salad, Side Dish
Cuisine Asian, Fusion
Servings 6 servings
Calories 250 kcal

Ingredients
  

Pasta and Vegetables

  • 8 ounces pasta (your choice, such as rotini or spaghetti) Choose your preferred pasta shape.
  • 1 cup bell peppers (any color, diced) Add variety based on your color preference.
  • 1 cup snap peas (trimmed and halved)
  • 1 cup shredded carrots
  • 1 cup green onions (sliced)
  • 1 cup cucumber (diced)
  • 1/4 cup cilantro (chopped) Add for flavor freshness.
  • 1/3 cup sliced almonds (optional) For added crunch.
  • 1/4 cup sesame seeds (for garnish) Use for a decorative touch.

Dressing

  • 1/4 cup soy sauce
  • 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
  • 2 tablespoons sesame oil
  • 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup Choose based on preference.
  • 1 tablespoon fresh ginger (minced)
  • 1 clove garlic (minced)
HOMECOOKIN Slow Cooker, Extra Large 10 Quart Digital Programmable Slow Cookers with Timer
Ninja Air Fryer with Air Crisp | 5 QT Capacity fits up to 4lbs of Fries | 4-in-1 Pro
Instant Pot 6QT VORTEX Plus Air Fryer, 6-in-1
Cuisinart Stand Mixer, 12 Speed, 5.5 Quart Stainless Steel Bowl, Chef’s Whisk, Mixing Paddle, Dough Hook, Splash Guard w/ Pour Spout, White Linen, SM-50NAS, Manual

Instructions
 

Preparation

  • Start by cooking the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water.
  • While the pasta cools, prepare the vegetables by chopping the bell peppers, slicing the snap peas, shredding the carrots, and dicing the cucumber. Set aside.
  • In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, honey or maple syrup, ginger, and garlic until well combined.

Mixing

  • In a large bowl, combine the cooled pasta, bell peppers, snap peas, carrots, green onions, cucumber, and cilantro.
  • Pour the dressing over the pasta and vegetables, tossing to coat them evenly.
  • If using, sprinkle the sliced almonds and sesame seeds on top for added crunch.
  • Let the salad sit for about 30 minutes in the refrigerator to meld the flavors.

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Notes

Serve warm or cold. For a heartier meal, pair with grilled chicken or tofu. To maintain crispness in leftovers, store dressing separately.
Keyword Asian Pasta Salad, Healthy Salad, pasta recipe, Quick Meal, Vegetable Salad