Lemon Arugula Pasta Salad: A Bright and Zesty Delight
This Lemon Arugula Pasta Salad is a refreshing and vibrant dish that combines the peppery bite of arugula with the tangy zest of lemon, creating a delightful balance of flavors. Perfect for warm-weather gatherings, meal prep, or as a side to grilled meats.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings (as a side dish)
- Category: Salad
- Method: Mixing, Boiling
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
3.5 oz arugula
8 oz pasta (such as farfalle or orzo), cooked and rinsed
½ cup walnuts, finely chopped
⅓ cup finely grated Parmesan or Pecorino cheese
1 lemon (juice and zest)
8 Tb olive oil
1 tsp salt
½ tsp black pepper
1 Tb capers plus 1 tsp of their brine
1 Tb white balsamic vinegar
6 basil leaves, cut chiffonade-style (optional)
2 tsp Dijon mustard
Instructions
- Cook pasta per package instructions until slightly softer than al dente. Drain and rinse well under cold water.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together lemon juice and zest, white balsamic vinegar, Dijon mustard, capers with their brine, walnuts, salt, and pepper.
- Slowly whisk in olive oil until the dressing is emulsified.
- Stir in the grated Parmesan or Pecorino cheese.
- Add the rinsed pasta to the dressing and toss to combine.
- Add the arugula and basil (if using), and toss gently until well coated.
- Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 24 hours before serving.
Notes
- Gluten-Free: Substitute with your favorite gluten-free pasta.
- Nut-Free: Replace walnuts with finely diced pumpkin or sunflower seeds.
- Dairy-Free: Omit Parmesan cheese and add extra walnuts and 1 teaspoon of nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor.
- Vinegar Substitute: Use red wine vinegar if white balsamic is unavailable.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. The arugula may wilt over time, but the salad will still be flavorful. This dish is best enjoyed fresh and is not suitable for freezing.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 300
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 450mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 17g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 10mg
