Green Pasta Salad with Edible Flowers

Green Pasta Salad with Edible Flowers is a refreshing, vibrant, and visually stunning dish that combines fresh vegetables, herbs, and colorful edible flowers with tender pasta. Perfect for spring and summer gatherings, this salad offers a light and satisfying option that will impress guests and family alike.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Green Pasta Salad with Edible Flowers is not only beautiful but also incredibly flavorful. It combines the crispness of fresh greens with the hearty texture of pasta, all tied together with a light dressing. The edible flowers add a unique and elegant touch, making it perfect for special occasions, picnics, or even everyday meals. Additionally, this recipe is easily customizable to fit a variety of dietary preferences and is packed with nutrients.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Pasta (such as fusilli, farfalle, or penne)
• Fresh baby spinach
• Arugula
• Fresh basil leaves
• Edible flowers (such as nasturtiums, pansies, or violets)
• Cucumber, thinly sliced
• Green peas (fresh or thawed from frozen)
• Avocado, diced
• Olive oil
• Lemon juice
• Salt
• Black pepper
• Optional: feta cheese or goat cheese

Directions

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked and cooled pasta, spinach, arugula, basil, cucumber, green peas, and avocado.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper to make the dressing.
4. Pour the dressing over the salad ingredients and gently toss to coat everything evenly.
5. Carefully fold in the edible flowers, reserving a few for garnishing the top.
6. Transfer the salad to a serving platter and sprinkle the reserved flowers over the top.
7. Serve immediately or refrigerate until ready to serve.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields approximately 6 servings.
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 10 minutes
Total time: 25 minutes

Variations

• Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu for extra protein.
• Incorporate other green vegetables like asparagus tips or edamame.
• Use a pesto-based dressing instead of lemon and olive oil for a richer flavor.
• Swap avocado for green olives for a different taste profile.
• Include toasted nuts or seeds, such as pine nuts or sunflower seeds, for added crunch.

Storage/Reheating

Store any leftover Green Pasta Salad with Edible Flowers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Since the flowers are delicate, it is best to add fresh ones just before serving if storing.
This salad is meant to be enjoyed cold and is not suitable for reheating.

FAQs

What types of pasta work best for this salad?

Short pasta shapes like fusilli, farfalle, or penne are ideal as they hold the dressing and mix-ins well.

Can I prepare this salad ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the pasta and vegetables a day in advance, but add the edible flowers just before serving for the freshest appearance.

Are all flowers safe to eat?

No, only specific flowers that are grown for culinary use are safe to eat. Ensure they are pesticide-free and edible.

How can I keep the avocado from browning?

Toss the diced avocado with a little lemon juice before adding it to the salad to help prevent browning.

Can I make this salad vegan?

Absolutely, simply omit any cheese or use a plant-based cheese alternative.

What are some other edible flowers I can use?

Marigolds, calendula, and borage flowers are also excellent options for adding color and flavor.

Should I cook the peas before adding them?

If using fresh peas, blanch them briefly in boiling water. Frozen peas should be thawed but do not need additional cooking.

How do I properly clean edible flowers?

Gently rinse them under cool water and pat dry with a paper towel before using them.

Can I use dried edible flowers?

While possible, fresh edible flowers are recommended for the best texture and visual appeal.

What dressing alternatives can I try?

A simple vinaigrette, herbed yogurt dressing, or a light green goddess dressing would complement the salad beautifully.

Conclusion

Green Pasta Salad with Edible Flowers is a stunning and nourishing dish that elevates any meal with its fresh flavors and vibrant presentation. Easy to customize and quick to prepare, it is perfect for impressing guests or simply enjoying a beautiful, healthy lunch. Whether served at a garden party or a family picnic, this salad is sure to leave a lasting impression.

Print