Lemon Arugula Pasta Salad

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Lemon Arugula Pasta Salad is a refreshing and vibrant dish that combines the zesty brightness of lemon with the peppery crunch of arugula, all tied together with perfectly cooked pasta. This salad is a perfect balance of flavors, offering a light yet satisfying option for a quick meal, side dish, or even a picnic treat. The tangy lemon dressing enhances the freshness of the ingredients, making every bite a delightful experience. Whether you're craving a nutritious lunch or looking to serve something new at your next gathering, this pasta salad will surely impress.

Ingredients

• 8 oz pasta (your choice of shape, like penne, fusilli, or farfalle)

• 4 cups fresh arugula, washed and dried

• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

• ¼ cup red onion, thinly sliced

• ¼ cup feta cheese, crumbled (optional)

• ¼ cup olive oil

• 2 tablespoon fresh lemon juice (about 1 lemon)

• 1 tablespoon lemon zest

• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard

• 1 garlic clove, minced

• Salt and pepper, to taste
  (Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool it down. Set aside.

2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta, arugula, cherry tomatoes, and red onion. If you're adding feta cheese, toss it in as well.

3. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, fresh lemon juice, lemon zest, Dijon mustard, and minced garlic. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

4. Pour the dressing over the pasta salad and toss until well coated. Adjust seasoning if needed.

5. Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 1 hour to allow the flavors to meld.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields about 4 servings. It takes roughly 15 minutes to prepare and cook, making it a quick and easy dish to whip up.

Variations

• Add protein: For a heartier salad, consider adding grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas.

• Swap greens: If arugula isn't your favorite, you can substitute it with spinach, mixed greens, or even kale.

• Cheese options: Swap feta for goat cheese, parmesan, or mozzarella, depending on your preference.

• Nuts and seeds: For added crunch, sprinkle toasted pine nuts, almonds, or sunflower seeds on top before serving.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The pasta and dressing may absorb some of the moisture, so you may need to add a bit of olive oil or lemon juice before serving.

• Reheating: This dish is best served cold, but if you prefer to serve it warm, you can gently reheat the pasta in a pan with a splash of olive oil.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta for this recipe?

Yes, you can use any pasta you like. Penne, fusilli, or farfalle work particularly well, but feel free to experiment with others!

Is there a way to make this dish gluten-free?

Yes, you can substitute the regular pasta with gluten-free pasta to make this dish gluten-free.

How can I make this recipe vegan?

To make the salad vegan, omit the feta cheese or replace it with a plant-based alternative. Additionally, ensure the Dijon mustard is vegan-friendly.

Can I prepare this salad in advance?

Yes, you can make this pasta salad a few hours ahead of time. It actually tastes better when the flavors have had time to meld together.

What other vegetables can I add to this salad?

Feel free to add any fresh veggies you like, such as cucumbers, bell peppers, or olives. Roasted vegetables like zucchini or cherry tomatoes can also be a great addition.

Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh lemon zest?

While fresh lemon zest provides the best flavor, you can substitute it with a small amount of dried lemon zest or even lemon juice, although the flavor will be a bit different.

Is this pasta salad spicy?

No, this recipe is not spicy. The arugula does add a mild peppery flavor, but it's not hot. If you enjoy spice, you could add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the dressing.

How long will the pasta salad stay fresh in the fridge?

It will stay fresh for up to 3 days in the fridge. Just make sure to store it in an airtight container.

Can I add grilled chicken or shrimp to this salad?

Absolutely! Adding grilled chicken, shrimp, or even roasted salmon will turn this into a more substantial meal.

Can I use bottled lemon juice instead of fresh lemon?

Fresh lemon juice is recommended for the best flavor, but if you don’t have fresh lemons, bottled lemon juice can be used in a pinch.

Conclusion

Lemon Arugula Pasta Salad is a bright, flavorful, and versatile dish that will elevate your meal with minimal effort. Whether you’re serving it as a side or enjoying it as a main, this salad combines fresh ingredients with a zesty lemon dressing that everyone will love. It’s a great addition to any table, offering a burst of flavors that feel both light and satisfying. Try it out and discover just how easy and delicious a pasta salad can be!