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–+ servings
Lemon Arugula Pasta Salad

Zesty Lemon Arugula Pasta Salad for a Refreshing Delight

A light and refreshing Lemon Arugula Pasta Salad packed with vibrant flavors and perfect for summer dining.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Chilling Time 30 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Salads
Cuisine: American
Calories: 350
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta Base
  • 8 oz Pasta Use farfalle or orzo for the best texture.
For the Greens
  • 3.5 oz Fresh Arugula Consider baby spinach as a milder option.
For Crunch and Creaminess
  • 0.5 cup Walnuts Finely chopped, toasting enhances their flavor.
  • 0.33 cup Parmesan Cheese Finely grated.
For the Zesty Dressing
  • 1 Lemon Juice and zest required.
  • 8 Tb Olive Oil Choose high-quality oil for the best flavor.
  • 1 Tb White Balsamic Vinegar Brightens the lemon.
  • 2 tsp Dijon Mustard Emulsifies the dressing.
  • 1 Tb Capers With 1 tsp brine.
  • 1 tsp Salt Enhances all flavors.
  • 0.5 tsp Black Pepper Freshly cracked.
For Optional Herbs
  • 6 leaves Basil Chiffonade, optional for flavor.

Equipment

  • large pot
  • Colander
  • Mixing Bowl
  • Whisk
  • serving spoons

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add pasta and cook for 8-10 minutes until slightly tender. Drain and rinse under cold water.
  2. In a mixing bowl, whisk together lemon juice and zest, white balsamic vinegar, Dijon mustard, salt, and black pepper. Stir in capers and walnuts. Gradually add olive oil while whisking until emulsified.
  3. Add cooled pasta to the dressing and toss gently to coat.
  4. Fold in arugula and optional basil, allowing residual heat to wilt the arugula slightly.
  5. Serve immediately or chill for a while. Garnish with lemon zest and Parmesan before serving.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 35gProtein: 10gFat: 22gSaturated Fat: 4gPolyunsaturated Fat: 6gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 10mgSodium: 400mgPotassium: 300mgFiber: 4gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 200IUVitamin C: 15mgCalcium: 15mgIron: 10mg

Notes

Store in an airtight container for 2-3 days. Keep dressing separate until serving for best flavor and texture.

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