Linguine Salad: A Medley of Summer Flavors
Let's dive into the culinary adventure that is linguine salad, a tantalizing blend of textures and flavors. This versatile dish is the epitome of summer cooking, offering a refreshing respite from the scorching heat.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound linguine pasta
- 1/2 cup chopped red onion
- 1/2 cup chopped bell pepper (any color)
- 1/2 cup chopped cucumber
- 1/2 cup chopped cherry tomatoes
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons white wine vinegar
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Cook the linguine: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the linguine according to the package directions. Drain the pasta and rinse it with cold water to stop the cooking process.
- Prepare the vegetables: While the pasta is cooking, chop the red onion, bell pepper, cucumber, cherry tomatoes, basil, and parsley.
- Make the dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, white wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper.
Serving and Enjoyment:
- Combine: In a large bowl, combine the cooked linguine, chopped vegetables, grated Parmesan cheese, and the dressing. Toss well to coat all ingredients.
- Chill: Refrigerate the salad for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. This will result in a more flavorful and refreshing salad.
- Serve: Garnish with additional Parmesan cheese and fresh herbs, if desired. Serve chilled for an invigorating summer meal.
Health Benefits:
Linguine salad not only tantalizes the taste buds but also offers a range of health benefits:
- Rich in fiber: With 3.1 grams of fiber per serving, this salad promotes digestive health and satiety.
- Low in calories: At only 407 calories per cup, this salad is a guilt-free indulgence.
- Source of protein and healthy fats: With 12 grams of protein and 24 grams of healthy fats, this salad provides essential nutrients for muscle growth and energy levels.
Variations:
- Add grilled chicken: For a protein-packed variation, toss in some grilled chicken strips.
- Substitute different vegetables: Feel free to experiment with other vegetables, such as zucchini, artichoke hearts, or olives.
- Use a different type of pasta: If linguine isn't your preference, use any other type of pasta, such as penne, fusilli, or farfalle.
How many calories are in Linguine Salad?
Each 1 cup of Linguine Salad contains 407 calories.
Linguine Salad Nutritional Information
| Nutrient | Amount per 1 cup (202g) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 407 Calories |
| Protein | 12g |
| Fat | 24g |
| Saturated Fat | 5.9g |
| Cholesterol | 0.024mg |
| Carbohydrates | 35g |
| Dietary Fiber | 3.1g |
| Sugar | 3g |
| Sodium | 0.708mg |
| Potassium | 0.2437mg |
| Calcium | 0.12mg |
| Iron | 0.0024mg |