ASPARAGUS PASTA SALAD WITH ITALIAN DRESSING

Asparagus Pasta Salad with Italian Dressing image

Provided by Kelly Senyei

Time 3h25m

Yield 8 servings

Number Of Ingredients 13

1/3 cup red wine vinegar
2 teaspoons fresh lemon juice
1 1/2 teaspoons minced garlic
1 teaspoon sugar
2 teaspoons dried oregano
1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes, or more to taste (optional)
1/2 cup extra-virgin olive oil
Kosher salt
2 1/2 cups dried short pasta, such as penne or rotini
1 pound asparagus, tough stems removed, spears cut into 1-inch lengths
2/3 cup sliced red onions
1 1/2 cups diced tomatoes
2/3 cup grated Parmesan, for serving

Steps:

For the dressing: Whisk together all of the ingredients in a medium bowl until combined. Set aside.
For the pasta salad: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to the package directions, just until al dente. Add the asparagus and cook it with the pasta for 1 more minute. Drain the pasta and asparagus then rinse with cold water and drain thoroughly.
Transfer the pasta and asparagus to a large bowl. Stir in the onions and tomatoes. Pour the dressing over the pasta, toss to combine, then cover and refrigerate for at least 3 hours and up to overnight. When ready to serve, stir in the Parmesan and enjoy cold or at room temperature.