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Lemon Arugula Pasta Salad

Lemon Arugula Pasta Salad for a Refreshing Summer Treat

This Lemon Arugula Pasta Salad is a refreshing dish bursting with vibrant summer flavors, perfect for casual gatherings.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Chilling Time 30 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Salads
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 320
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta
  • 8 oz short pasta (farfalle or orzo) choose a shape that holds the dressing well
For the Salad
  • 3.5 oz fresh arugula adds a vibrant peppery flavor
  • 0.5 cup finely chopped walnuts toasted enhances flavor
  • 0.33 cup finely grated Parmesan or Pecorino fresh-grated preferred
For the Dressing
  • 1 lemon (juice and zest) infuses acidity and aroma
  • 8 tablespoons high-quality olive oil enhances flavor
  • 1 tablespoon white balsamic vinegar brightens the dish
  • 2 teaspoons Dijon mustard helps emulsify the dressing
  • 1 tablespoon capers with 1 teaspoon brine
  • 1 teaspoon salt enhances flavors
  • 0.5 teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper adds subtle spice
  • 6 leaves fresh basil (optional) brings herbaceous note

Equipment

  • large pot
  • mixing bowl
  • whisk
  • tongs
  • cutting board
  • knife
  • Measuring cups
  • measuring spoons

Method
 

Cooking Steps
  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta until slightly softer than al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Drain and rinse under cold water.
  2. In a mixing bowl, combine lemon juice and zest, white balsamic vinegar, Dijon mustard, salt, and black pepper. Whisk in olive oil until emulsified.
  3. Add chopped walnuts and capers with brine to the dressing, stirring gently to combine.
  4. Add cooled pasta to the dressing and gently toss until evenly coated.
  5. Fold in arugula and basil, allowing the arugula to wilt slightly.
  6. Taste and adjust seasoning. Serve immediately or chill for 30 minutes before serving.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 320kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 8gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 3gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 15gCholesterol: 5mgSodium: 400mgPotassium: 250mgFiber: 3gSugar: 1gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 30mgCalcium: 150mgIron: 2mg

Notes

For best results, toast the walnuts before adding them to the salad. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

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