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Protein-Packed Pasta Salad with Asparagus, Mozzarella & Pancetta

Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes

Ingredients
  

  • 14 oz Barilla Protein+ Cellentani one whole box
  • 1/2 bunch asparagus trimmed & chopped
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes quartered
  • 2 cups baby spinach
  • 1/4 cup chopped green onions or chives
  • 8 oz mozzarella pearls or chopped fresh mozzarella
  • 4 oz pancetta diced
  • 2 tbsp fresh garden thyme leaves
  • 1/4 cup olive oil
  • 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
  • 1/2 tbsp garlic
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • Fresh cracked black pepper to taste

Instructions
 

  • Cook the pasta: Bring salted water to a boil and cook Cellentani according to the package instructions. In the last 2 minutes, add the chopped asparagus. Drain and rinse under cool water to stop cooking.
  • Crisp the pancetta: In a skillet over medium heat, cook diced pancetta until golden and crisp. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to drain.
  • Make the dressing: In a small jar or bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, fresh thyme, salt, and pepper.
  • Assemble the salad: In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta and asparagus with cherry tomatoes, green onions, crispy pancetta, mozzarella and baby spinach. Chill until ready to serve.
  • Dress it up: When you're ready to serve, pour the lemon-thyme vinaigrette over the salad and gently toss to coat everything evenly.