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–+ servings
Zesty Lemon Arugula Pasta Salad

Zesty Lemon Arugula Pasta Salad for a Fresh Summer Boost

A refreshing Zesty Lemon Arugula Pasta Salad bursting with flavors, perfect for summer picnics and busy weeknights.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Salads
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 350
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta Base
  • 8 oz pasta (e.g., Barilla Penne) use al dente pasta to ensure it holds up with the dressing
For the Greens
  • 4 oz arugula add just before serving to keep it crisp
  • 8 leaves basil hand-torn into 1/2-inch pieces
For the Veggies
  • 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes halved
For the Crunch
  • 2/3 cup walnuts toasted and chopped
For the Creaminess
  • 1/3 cup parmesan cheese grated
For the Zesty Dressing
  • 1.5 lemons zested and juiced
  • 3/4 cup olive oil high-quality enhances overall flavor
  • 1 Tbsp white balsamic vinegar use regular balsamic if unavailable
  • 2 tsp Dijon mustard can use yellow mustard if needed
For the Flavor Boost
  • 1 Tbsp capers optional
  • 1 tsp caper brine
  • 1 1/4 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 1/2 tsp honey omit for a vegan version

Equipment

  • Skillet
  • Mixing bowl
  • large pot
  • colander

Method
 

Steps
  1. In a dry skillet over medium heat, toast the walnuts for 3-4 minutes, stirring frequently until fragrant and lightly golden.
  2. Zest and juice the lemons. Tear the basil leaves, halve the cherry tomatoes, and grate the parmesan cheese.
  3. Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Cook pasta for 8-10 minutes until al dente. Drain without rinsing.
  4. In a mixing bowl, whisk together lemon juice and zest, white balsamic vinegar, Dijon mustard, capers, honey, salt, and black pepper. Gradually whisk in olive oil.
  5. Combine the slightly cooled pasta with the dressing, then fold in parmesan, walnuts, cherry tomatoes, and basil.
  6. Gently fold in arugula just before serving and let sit for 10-15 minutes.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 40gProtein: 10gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 3gPolyunsaturated Fat: 4gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 5mgSodium: 300mgPotassium: 250mgFiber: 3gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 25mgCalcium: 150mgIron: 2mg

Notes

Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Revive with a drizzle of olive oil and lemon juice before serving.

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