Spring Picnic Pasta: The Easiest Recipe Ever!

January 16, 2026

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Spring picnic pasta! That’s all I can think about as the weather warms up and the days get longer. I still remember when my grandmother would make a big batch of pasta salad, packed with fresh veggies and a tangy vinaigrette, perfect for our annual family picnic. It wasn’t just about the food; it was about the laughter, the sunshine, and the shared joy of being together. This spring picnic pasta recipe celebrates those simple moments and brings a little bit of sunshine to every bite. Now it is your turn to elevate your spring picnic with this delicious pasta recipe.

Why You Will Love This spring picnic pasta Recipe

This spring picnic pasta recipe is a crowd pleaser and is the perfect dish to bring to any spring gathering. It’s incredibly easy to make, bursting with flavor, and oh so satisfying. What sets this recipe apart is the combination of al dente pasta, crisp seasonal vegetables, and a zesty lemon herb vinaigrette that ties everything together beautifully. Follow us on Pinterest for more delicious spring recipes and picnic inspiration!

This pasta is a celebration of fresh, vibrant flavors that will brighten up any picnic basket. It’s great for days when you don’t feel like spending hours in the kitchen.

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Ingredients Needed for This spring picnic pasta Recipe

Pasta: 1 pound rotini or penne pasta
Asparagus: 1 pound, trimmed and cut into 1-inch pieces
Peas: 1 cup frozen peas, thawed
Cherry Tomatoes: 1 pint, halved
Red Onion: 1/2 small, thinly sliced
Fresh Basil: 1/4 cup, chopped
Fresh Parsley: 1/4 cup, chopped
Feta Cheese: 4 ounces, crumbled (optional)

For the Lemon Herb Vinaigrette:

Olive Oil: 1/2 cup
Lemon Juice: 1/4 cup, fresh
Dijon Mustard: 1 tablespoon
Honey: 1 teaspoon
Garlic: 2 cloves, minced
Salt: 1/2 teaspoon, or to taste
Black Pepper: 1/4 teaspoon, or to taste

How to Make This spring picnic pasta Recipe

1. Cook the Pasta: Cook the pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process. Set aside.
2. Blanch the Asparagus: Bring a pot of water to a boil. Add the asparagus and cook for 2-3 minutes until bright green and slightly tender. Drain and rinse with cold water.
3. Prepare the Vinaigrette: In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, honey, garlic, salt, and pepper until well combined.
4. Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, blanched asparagus, thawed peas, halved cherry tomatoes, and thinly sliced red onion.
5. Dress the Salad: Pour the lemon herb vinaigrette over the pasta mixture and toss gently to coat.
6. Add Herbs and Cheese: Stir in the chopped fresh basil and parsley. If using, gently fold in the crumbled feta cheese.
7. Chill: Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. This also ensures a nice chilled serving temperature, perfect for a picnic.

As you know, fresh ingredients are key to a great dish, feel free to check out my recipe for Spring Picnic Brownies, these would pair great with our Spring Picnic Stew.

How to Serve This spring picnic pasta Recipe

Serve this spring picnic pasta chilled, straight from the refrigerator. It’s perfect as a main course or a side dish at your spring picnic.

Consider pairing it with grilled chicken, fish, or tofu for a complete meal. You can also add a sprinkle of extra feta cheese and a few fresh basil leaves as a garnish for a touch of elegance. For an extra burst of flavor, serve it with a side of crusty bread for soaking up the delicious vinaigrette.

How to Store This spring picnic pasta Recipe

Store leftover spring picnic pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing is not recommended as the pasta and vegetables may become soggy upon thawing.

Reheat in the microwave or serve cold. The flavors will continue to develop as it sits in the refrigerator, making it even more delicious the next day.

Tips to Make This spring picnic pasta Recipe

Pasta Choice: Feel free to use your favorite type of pasta. Rotini or penne work well because their ridges hold the vinaigrette nicely.
Vegetable Variations: You can substitute or add other spring vegetables such as bell peppers, zucchini, or sugar snap peas.
Herb Swaps: If you don’t have fresh basil or parsley on hand, you can use other fresh herbs like dill, mint, or chives.
Make it Ahead: This pasta salad can be made a day in advance. Just be sure to store it in the refrigerator and give it a good toss before serving.
Vegan Option: Omit the feta cheese and use maple syrup or agave in place of the honey in the vinaigrette to make it vegan.

Helpful Notes for This spring picnic pasta Recipe

The quality of your olive oil can make a significant difference in the flavor of the vinaigrette. Opt for a good quality extra virgin olive oil for the best taste.

If you find the lemon juice too tart, you can add a little more honey to balance it out. Alternatively, if you prefer a tangier flavor, add a splash more lemon juice! Be sure to taste and adjust the seasoning to your liking. Don’t forget to check out one of my personal favorites, the Spring Picnic Cupcakes!

Variation of This spring picnic pasta Recipe

Mediterranean Twist: Add Kalamata olives, sun dried tomatoes, and artichoke hearts for a Mediterranean inspired version.
Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the vinaigrette for a spicy kick.
Protein Boost: Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas to make it a heartier and more filling meal.
Creamy Version: Add a dollop of Greek yogurt or sour cream to the vinaigrette for a creamy twist.

What are some good ingredients to include in spring picnic pasta?

Fresh vegetables like bell peppers, cucumbers, tomatoes, and olives are great additions. Consider adding cheese, herbs like basil and parsley, and a light vinaigrette dressing for a refreshing flavor.

How far in advance can I make spring picnic pasta?

You can make spring picnic pasta a day or two in advance, as the flavors tend to meld together nicely. Just be sure to store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain its freshness.

What is the best type of pasta to use for a picnic pasta salad?

Smaller pasta shapes like rotini, penne, or farfalle work well because they are easy to eat and hold the dressing nicely. Avoid using delicate pasta that might break easily.

How long can spring picnic pasta sit out safely?

It’s best not to leave spring picnic pasta out for more than two hours at room temperature, especially in warm weather. Keeping it refrigerated helps prevent bacterial growth.

Conclusion

With its vibrant flavors and fresh ingredients, this spring picnic pasta is the perfect addition to any outdoor gathering. It’s easy to make, delicious to eat, and sure to be a crowd pleaser. So grab your ingredients, head to the kitchen, and create a memorable dish that everyone will love. Happy cooking, and enjoy every bite of this delightful spring picnic pasta!