Delicious salad pasta recipes for a fresh meal option
Peer reviewed by UK recipe editorsAuthored by UK recipe editorsOriginally published 17 Oct 2025
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This heart-healthy salad pasta combines the robust flavours of oil-packed anchovy fillets and the subtle heat of crushed red pepper flakes, creating a dish that is as satisfying as it is nutritious. The use of extra-virgin olive oil not only enhances the taste but also offers beneficial fats, making it a delightful option for a light yet fulfilling meal. With the addition of fresh garlic, zesty lemon juice, and a variety of greens like radicchio and baby rocket, this pasta dish is a celebration of vibrant ingredients that can be enjoyed all year round.
Ideal for a family dinner or a quick lunch, this salad pasta is designed to be both easy to prepare and packed with wholesome goodness. Tossed with penne and finished with a touch of cold unsalted butter for creaminess, it makes a perfect centrepiece for any table. Serve it warm or chilled, and relish the balance of flavours while knowing you're treating your body well.
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Ingredients for Salad pasta
60 g oil-packed anchovy fillets
1 head of garlic, cloves separated, thinly sliced
180 ml extra-virgin olive oil
5 ml crushed red pepper flakes
450 g penne pasta
kosher salt to taste
45 g cold unsalted butter
45 ml fresh lemon juice
1 head of radicchio, trimmed, quartered, leaves separated
140 g baby rocket
30 g basil leaves, torn if large
freshly ground black pepper to taste
How to make Salad pasta
Combine the anchovies, garlic, oil, and red pepper flakes in a large frying pan. Cook over medium heat, stirring often, until the anchovies have disintegrated into the oil and the garlic is lightly browned, approximately 6–8 minutes.
Meanwhile, cook the pasta in a large pot of boiling salted water, stirring occasionally, until al dente. Drain the pasta, reserving 240 ml of the cooking liquid.
Remove the frying pan with the anchovy mixture from the heat and stir in the butter and lemon juice until the butter has melted. Add the pasta and 120 ml of the reserved cooking liquid, stirring constantly until a thick, glossy sauce forms, adding more cooking liquid as needed.
Place the radicchio in a large bowl. Add the pasta and sauce, tossing to coat while adding more cooking liquid if necessary.
Add the arugula and basil to the bowl but do not toss; season with salt and black pepper to taste.
Divide the pasta among plates or bowls, tossing gently to ensure the arugula is coated in sauce without wilting too much.
Disclaimer
While every effort has been made to ensure the information is accurate and up to date, individual needs may vary and dietary requirements can differ based on personal health conditions. Always check food labels and allergen information before preparing or consuming any recipe. If you have specific health concerns, allergies, intolerances, or are following a medically prescribed diet, seek advice from your GP, pharmacist, or a registered dietitian before making significant changes to your diet or lifestyle.
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Article history
The information on this page is peer reviewed by qualified clinicians.
17 Oct 2025 | Originally published
Authored by:
UK recipe editors
Peer reviewed by
UK recipe editors

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