Spring Pasta Lemon Radishes (Printable Version)

Tender pasta with radishes, greens, and lemon vinaigrette—perfect for a light spring meal.

# Ingredient List:

→ Pasta

01 - 10 oz short pasta such as fusilli, penne, or farfalle

→ Vegetables

02 - 1 cup sugar snap peas, trimmed and halved
03 - 1 cup asparagus, cut into 1-inch pieces
04 - 5 to 6 radishes, thinly sliced
05 - 1 cup baby spinach leaves

→ Lemon Vinaigrette

06 - 3 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
07 - 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
08 - 1 tsp lemon zest
09 - 1 tsp Dijon mustard
10 - 1 small garlic clove, finely minced
11 - 1/2 tsp honey or maple syrup
12 - Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

→ Garnish

13 - 2 tbsp finely chopped fresh chives or parsley
14 - 1/4 cup crumbled feta or goat cheese (optional)

# How to Make:

01 - Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. During the last 2 minutes, add sugar snap peas and asparagus. Drain and rinse under cool water; set aside.
02 - Transfer cooked pasta and blanched vegetables to a large mixing bowl. Add sliced radishes and baby spinach. Toss gently to combine.
03 - In a small bowl or jar, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, honey or maple syrup, salt, and pepper until emulsified.
04 - Pour the vinaigrette over the pasta and vegetables. Toss gently to ensure even coating.
05 - Fold in chopped herbs and crumbled cheese (if using). Toss again and adjust seasoning as needed.
06 - Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 2 hours to allow flavors to develop.

# Expert Suggestions:

01 -
  • The lemon vinaigrette is so zesty, you'll want to drizzle it on everything.
  • I love how snap peas and radishes stay crisp, even after chilling.
02 -
  • Once, I overcooked the pasta and it turned that whole batch into mush—the real trick is never to leave the pot unattended.
  • Adding the herbs just before serving keeps their flavor fresh and prevents them from getting soggy and dull.
03 -
  • Letting the salad sit for 20 minutes after tossing boosts the depth of flavor.
  • A pinch of chili flakes in the vinaigrette adds an unexpected kick that elevates each forkful.
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