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Zesty Lemon Arugula Pasta Salad for Bright Summer Nights

This Zesty Lemon Arugula Pasta Salad is a refreshing, light escape perfect for summer gatherings.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Salads
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 250
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta
  • 8 oz Pasta Use farfalle, orzo, or another short pasta.
For the Salad
  • 3.5 oz Fresh Arugula Adds a peppery bite.
  • 0.5 cup Walnuts Finely chopped; toasting enhances flavor.
  • 0.33 cup Parmesan or Pecorino Cheese Finely grated.
  • 6 Basil Leaves Chiffonade, optional.
For the Dressing
  • 1 Lemon Juice and zest.
  • 8 Tb Olive Oil High-quality oil is best.
  • 1 Tb White Balsamic Vinegar
  • 2 tsp Dijon Mustard
  • 1 Tb Capers Plus 1 tsp brine.
  • 1 tsp Salt
  • 0.5 tsp Black Pepper Freshly cracked.

Equipment

  • large pot
  • Colander
  • Mixing Bowl
  • Whisk

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil, add pasta, and cook according to package instructions (8-10 minutes). Drain and rinse under cold water.
  2. Make the Dressing: Whisk together lemon juice and zest, white balsamic vinegar, Dijon mustard, salt, black pepper, capers, and walnuts. Gradually whisk in olive oil.
  3. Combine the Pasta and Dressing: Toss the cooled pasta with the dressing mixture until evenly coated. Let it marinate.
  4. Add Greens: Fold in fresh arugula and optional basil leaves, tossing gently.
  5. Serve and Enjoy: Transfer to a serving dish, serve chilled or at room temperature. Sprinkle additional cheese if desired.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 250kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 7gFat: 12gSaturated Fat: 2gPolyunsaturated Fat: 3gMonounsaturated Fat: 7gCholesterol: 5mgSodium: 400mgPotassium: 250mgFiber: 3gSugar: 1gVitamin A: 600IUVitamin C: 15mgCalcium: 100mgIron: 1.5mg

Notes

For best flavor, allow the salad to marinate before serving and serve chilled or at room temperature.

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