Sesame Pasta N’ Greens Salad

Spinach, Pasta, & Bell Peppers- oh my! This salad is a blend of Asia and Italy, resulting in one delicious and addicting plate (or bowl).

I give credit to my mom for this salad. I don’t know how she came across this recipe, but in my mind it’s hers. She would make this salad frequently when I was growing up, and I would make sure there were no leftovers! This salad is seriously delectable. Not only that, but it’s simple to make and a sure crowd pleaser. Feel free to adjust all ingredients according to your preference- I hope you all enjoy!

IMG_9447

Sesame Pasta N’ Greens Salad

Serves: About 8 people

Ingredients:

  • Salad:
    • 1 bag (12 oz.) egg noodles, cooked and cooled
    • 1 bag baby spinach
    • 2 bell peppers, sliced or diced
      • I prefer using a mix of red, yellow and orange bell peppers
    • 1/2 cup almonds, chopped
  • Optional Salad Add-ons:
    • 4-6 cooked chicken breasts, shredded
    • 5-6 green onions sliced
    • Use sugar-diced almonds instead of regular ones
  • For the Dressing:
    • 1/3 cup red wine vinegar
    • 1/2 cup oil (vegetable or olive oil)
    • 1/3 cup soy sauce
    • 3 Tbsp. sugar
    • 1/4 cup sesame seeds (optional)
    • 1/4 cup fresh parsley (or use a small amount of dried parsley)
    • 1/2 tsp. salt
    • 1/2 tsp. pepper

Method:

  1. Cook the pasta according to package instructions. When done cooking, rinse, drain, and set aside to cool.
  2. Compile the salad: Combine pasta, spinach, bell peppers, almonds, and any other desired ingredients in a large bowl.
  3. To make the dressing: combine all ingredients in a mason jar, or similar container with an airtight lid. This makes it easy to shake all the ingredients together. Refrigerate. Shake again before use.
  4. Do not put the salad dressing on the salad until just before serving. If the dressing sits overnight on the salad, the texture will become wilty and quite frankly, gross. I like to keep the dressing in a bottle and let individuals put on accordingly.

IMG_9445

Leave a comment