Capellini Asiago Salad: A Wegman’s Inspired Delight

I vividly remember the first time I tasted a capellini salad like this. It was at a summer block party, and I was instantly drawn to a vibrant bowl brimming with what looked like tangled strands of sunshine, dotted with jewels of tomato and flecks of green. One bite and I was hooked – the delicate pasta, the salty tang of Asiago, the burst of fresh tomato, and that little kick of heat that lingered just long enough. It was the perfect dish to cut through the summer heat and a true celebration of simple, fresh flavors. I’ve been chasing that perfect bite ever since, and this recipe, inspired by Wegman’s, gets me incredibly close.

Recipe Overview

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yields: 13 cups
• Dietary Type: Vegetarian

Ingredients

• 1 lb Italian Classics Capellini, broken in thirds
• 8 ounces Asiago cheese, pressato, 1/4-inch dice (Cheese Shop)
• 2 cups Tomatoes, bruschetta (Mediterranean Bar)
• 4 tablespoons Chopped Italian parsley
• 2 tablespoons Hot pepper spread (Italian Classics)
• 1⁄4 cup Basting oil
• Salt and Pepper to taste

Equipment Needed

• Large stockpot
• Colander
• Large mixing bowl

Instructions

1. Cook the capellini pasta according to the package directions in a large stockpot of boiling salted water. Be careful not to overcook it; you want it al dente.
2. Once the pasta is cooked, drain it thoroughly in a colander. Immediately rinse the pasta with cold water to stop the cooking process and prevent it from sticking together. This step is crucial for achieving the desired texture in the salad. Ensure all excess water is drained.
3. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked and cooled capellini pasta, diced Asiago cheese, bruschetta tomatoes, chopped Italian parsley, hot pepper spread, and basting oil.
4. Season the salad generously with salt and pepper to your liking. Remember that the Asiago cheese and hot pepper spread already contribute some saltiness and spice, so taste as you go and adjust accordingly.
5. Toss all ingredients together gently but thoroughly to ensure that the pasta is evenly coated with the other ingredients. Be careful not to break the pasta while tossing.

Expert Tips & Tricks

• Cheese Matters: Using high-quality Asiago pressato is crucial for the best flavor and texture. The cheese should be firm enough to hold its shape when diced, but not so hard that it’s difficult to eat. If you can’t find pressato, a good quality aged Asiago will also work, though the flavor will be more intense.
• Tomato Temptation: The bruschetta tomatoes from the Mediterranean bar offer a great balance of flavor and moisture. If you are using fresh tomatoes, consider lightly salting them and letting them drain for a few minutes to remove excess water, which can make the salad soggy. You can also roast the tomatoes for a deeper, sweeter flavor.
• Heat Control: The hot pepper spread adds a wonderful kick to this salad. Start with a smaller amount (1 tablespoon) and adjust to taste if you’re sensitive to spice. For an even milder flavor, you could substitute with a pinch of red pepper flakes or a drizzle of chili oil.
• Pasta Perfection: Be vigilant about cooking the pasta al dente. Overcooked pasta will become mushy in the salad. Also, rinsing with cold water is essential not just to stop the cooking, but also to remove excess starch, which prevents the pasta from clumping.
• Marinating Magic: For even better flavor, prepare the salad a few hours in advance and allow it to marinate in the refrigerator. This will allow the flavors to meld together beautifully. However, keep in mind that the pasta may absorb some of the dressing, so you may need to add a little extra basting oil before serving.
• Consider adding toasted pine nuts for some extra texture and a nutty flavour.
• Chopped Kalamata olives would also compliment the flavours of this salad very well.

Serving & Storage Suggestions

This Capellini Asiago Salad is delicious served chilled or at room temperature. It makes a fantastic side dish for grilled chicken, fish, or vegetables. You can also serve it as a light lunch or appetizer.

To serve, transfer the salad to a serving bowl and garnish with a few extra sprigs of fresh Italian parsley.

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep in mind that the pasta will continue to absorb the dressing as it sits, so it may become slightly drier over time. If this happens, simply add a little more basting oil before serving. This salad is best enjoyed cold and is not recommended for freezing.

Nutritional Information

Nutrient	Amount per Serving	% Daily Value
Calories	175 kcal	N/A
Total Fat	4.8 g	7%
Saturated Fat	0.7 g	3%
Cholesterol	0 mg	0%
Sodium	4.4 mg	0%
Total Carbohydrate	28 g	9%
Dietary Fiber	1.8 g	7%
Sugars	1.7 g	N/A
Protein	5 g	9%

Note: Nutritional information is an estimate and may vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.

Variations & Substitutions

• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free capellini pasta for a gluten-free version of this salad.
• Vegan: Substitute the Asiago cheese with a vegan parmesan-style cheese. Ensure the hot pepper spread is also vegan-friendly.
• Spice Level: Adjust the amount of hot pepper spread to control the level of heat. You can also use a different type of hot sauce or chili oil for a different flavor profile.
• Seasonal: Use seasonal tomatoes for the freshest flavor. In the winter, you can use canned diced tomatoes or roasted root vegetables instead.
• Herbs: Experiment with different herbs, such as basil, oregano, or thyme, for a different flavor twist.
• Protein Boost: Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas for a protein boost.

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

Q: Can I make this salad ahead of time?

A: Yes, you can make this salad a few hours in advance and store it in the refrigerator. The flavors will meld together beautifully. However, keep in mind that the pasta may absorb some of the dressing, so you may need to add a little extra basting oil before serving.

Q: Can I use a different type of cheese?

A: While Asiago cheese is recommended for its unique flavor, you can substitute it with Parmesan, Pecorino Romano, or another hard Italian cheese.

Q: How long will this salad last in the refrigerator?

A: This salad will last for up to 3 days in the refrigerator when stored in an airtight container.

Q: Can I freeze this salad?

A: Freezing is not recommended, as the pasta and tomatoes may become mushy upon thawing.

Q: What if I don’t have hot pepper spread?

A: If you don’t have hot pepper spread, you can substitute it with a pinch of red pepper flakes, a drizzle of chili oil, or a small amount of your favorite hot sauce.

Final Thoughts

This Capellini Asiago Salad is a vibrant and flavorful dish that’s perfect for any occasion. It’s easy to make, customizable to your preferences, and always a crowd-pleaser. I encourage you to try this recipe and experience the delightful combination of flavors and textures for yourself. Don’t hesitate to experiment with different ingredients and variations to create your own signature version. And most importantly, share your creations and feedback – I’d love to hear how you made it your own! This salad pairs beautifully with a crisp glass of white wine or a refreshing sparkling water with lemon. Enjoy!