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Lemon Arugula Pasta Salad

Zesty Lemon Arugula Pasta Salad for a Fresh Flavor Boost

Lemon Arugula Pasta Salad is a refreshing, quick, and nutritious dish that combines arugula, pasta, and a zesty lemon dressing.
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Prep Time 25 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Salads
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Calories: 320
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Salad
  • 8 oz Pasta (such as farfalle or orzo) Feel free to use gluten-free pasta
  • ½ cup Walnuts, finely chopped Toasting enhances flavor; substitutes include pecans or almonds
  • ⅓ cup Parmesan or Pecorino Cheese, finely grated Nutritional yeast can be used for a vegan version
  • 1 lemon Juice and zest Lime can be used as a substitute
  • 8 Tb Olive Oil Avocado oil is a good alternative
  • 1 tsp Salt Adjust to taste
  • ½ tsp Black Pepper Adjust to taste
  • 1 Tb Capers Plus 1 tsp brine; chopped olives can be a substitute
  • 1 Tb White Balsamic Vinegar Regular balsamic vinegar can be used if lacking white balsamic
  • 2 tsp Dijon Mustard Yellow mustard can substitute
  • 6 leaves Basil (optional) Chiffonade-style; can substitute with parsley or omit

Equipment

  • Large Pot
  • Mixing bowl
  • Whisk
  • Colander

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Cook the Pasta: Boil salted water in a large pot. Add 8 oz pasta and cook until slightly softer than al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Drain and rinse under cold water.
  2. Prepare the Dressing: In a large mixing bowl, combine juice and zest of 1 lemon, 1 Tb of white balsamic vinegar, and 2 tsp of Dijon mustard. Whisk in 8 Tb of olive oil. Add ½ cup walnuts, 1 Tb of capers plus 1 tsp brine, 1 tsp salt, and ½ tsp black pepper, mixing thoroughly.
  3. Incorporate Pasta and Cheese: Add cooled pasta to the dressing, tossing gently. Fold in ⅓ cup grated cheese.
  4. Add Fresh Greens: Gently fold in a handful of arugula. If using basil, chiffonade and add now.
  5. Adjust Seasoning and Serve: Taste and adjust seasoning with salt or pepper. Serve immediately.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 320kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 10gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 3gPolyunsaturated Fat: 6gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 10mgSodium: 400mgPotassium: 300mgFiber: 4gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 15IUVitamin C: 50mgCalcium: 15mgIron: 10mg

Notes

For best taste, mix salad right before serving. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 24 hours.

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