Go Back
–+ servings
Zesty Lemon Arugula Pasta Salad

Zesty Lemon Arugula Pasta Salad: Fresh and Flavorful Delight

Enjoy the freshness of Zesty Lemon Arugula Pasta Salad, a delightful and easy dish perfect for any occasion.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 9 minutes
Cooling Time 10 minutes
Total Time 34 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Salads
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 320
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta
  • 8 ounces Pasta (penne or fusilli) whole wheat or gluten-free options are acceptable
For the Greens
  • 4 cups Arugula use fresh arugula right before serving
  • 1 cup Fresh Basil tear leaves to prevent bruising
For the Veggies
  • 1 cup Cherry Tomatoes halve before adding
For the Crunch
  • 1 cup Walnuts toast in a dry pan before chopping
  • 1/2 cup Parmesan Cheese grate fresh for the best texture
For the Dressing
  • 2 large Lemons zest and juice needed
  • 1/3 cup Olive Oil high-quality recommended
  • 2 tablespoons White Balsamic Vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon Mustard
  • 1 tablespoon Capers include caper brine for flavor
  • 1 tablespoon Honey adjust to taste
  • to taste Salt
  • to taste Pepper

Equipment

  • Skillet
  • Mixing bowl
  • Large pot
  • Baking sheet
  • Whisk

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Toast the walnuts in a dry skillet over medium heat for 3-4 minutes until fragrant and golden.
  2. Prep the ingredients: zest and juice the lemons, tear basil, halve the cherry tomatoes, and grate the parmesan.
  3. Cook the pasta in salted water for 7-9 minutes until al dente, drain, and let cool slightly.
  4. Make the dressing by whisking together lemon juice, vinegar, mustard, capers, honey, salt, and pepper. Drizzle in olive oil while whisking.
  5. Combine the cooled pasta with the dressing, then fold in parmesan and walnuts.
  6. Add halved cherry tomatoes and torn basil, then mix in arugula just before serving.
  7. Serve immediately or allow to sit for 10-15 minutes to enhance flavors.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 320kcalCarbohydrates: 34gProtein: 9gFat: 18gSaturated Fat: 3gPolyunsaturated Fat: 5gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 10mgSodium: 220mgPotassium: 300mgFiber: 4gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 30mgCalcium: 150mgIron: 1mg

Notes

Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days; add arugula just before serving.

Tried this recipe?

Let us know how it was!