Get ready to embark on a culinary adventure that will tantalize your taste buds and revolutionize your pasta salad game! This isn't just another boring side dish - it's a fusion masterpiece that combines the zesty kick of ginger, the crunch of roasted peanuts, and the vibrant freshness of bell peppers in one irresistible bowl. Whether you're looking to impress guests, meal prep like a pro, or simply treat yourself to something extraordinary, this Ginger Nut Pasta Salad is about to become your new obsession!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 10 mins
Total Time: 25 mins
Cuisine: Fusion
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 8 ounces pasta (fusilli or penne)
- 1/2 cup roasted peanuts, chopped
- 1/4 cup grated ginger
- 1/2 cup diced bell peppers
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons sesame oil
- Chopped green onions for garnish
Instructions
- Fill a large pot with water and add a pinch of salt. Bring the water to a rolling boil over high heat.
- Add the fusilli or penne pasta to the boiling water. Cook according to package instructions until the pasta is al dente, typically 8-10 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- While the pasta is cooking, prepare the other ingredients. Chop the roasted peanuts into small pieces. Grate fresh ginger using a fine grater. Dice the bell peppers into small, uniform cubes.
- Once the pasta is cooked, drain it in a colander and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process and cool the pasta down quickly.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta, chopped peanuts, grated ginger, and diced bell peppers.
- In a separate small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce and sesame oil to create a quick dressing.
- Pour the dressing over the pasta mixture and toss gently to ensure all ingredients are evenly coated.
- Cover the bowl and refrigerate for 15-20 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
- Before serving, garnish with freshly chopped green onions for added flavor and color.
- Serve chilled as a refreshing and flavorful pasta salad.
Tips
- Cook pasta al dente: The key to a great pasta salad is perfectly cooked pasta. Be sure to follow package instructions and test for doneness to avoid mushy noodles.
- Chill thoroughly: Letting the salad rest in the refrigerator for 15-20 minutes allows the flavors to meld and develop, creating a more complex taste profile.
- Fresh is best: Use freshly grated ginger for maximum flavor and aroma. Pre-ground ginger won't give you the same vibrant taste.
- Customize your crunch: Feel free to swap roasted peanuts with other nuts like cashews or almonds for a different texture.
- Make ahead friendly: This salad tastes even better the next day, making it perfect for meal prep or potlucks.
- Adjust seasoning to taste: Don't be afraid to add a little extra soy sauce or sesame oil if you want more depth of flavor.Pro tip: For an extra flavor boost, toast your nuts before chopping to enhance their nutty flavor and add a beautiful depth to the dish!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 380kcal
Carbohydrates: 45g
Protein: 12g
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Cholesterol: 0mg
