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Lemon Arugula Pasta Salad

Zesty Lemon Arugula Pasta Salad That Brightens Any Meal

This Lemon Arugula Pasta Salad is a refreshing blend of citrus, walnuts, and peppery arugula, perfect for any occasion.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Appetizers
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 320
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Salad
  • 4 cups arugula Can substitute with spinach
  • 2 cups pasta (farfalle or orzo) Cook slightly softer than al dente
  • 1 cup walnuts Can swap with pecans or almonds
  • 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese Or use nutritional yeast for vegan option
For the Dressing
  • 1/4 cup lemon juice
  • 1 tablespoon lemon zest
  • 1 tablespoon white balsamic vinegar Regular balsamic can deepen flavor
  • 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard Whole grain mustard adds texture
  • 1/2 cup olive oil Or use avocado oil
  • 1 teaspoon salt Adjust to taste
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 2 tablespoons capers Can be substituted with olives
Optional Additions
  • 1/4 cup basil leaves Mint can be a substitute

Equipment

  • Large pot
  • mixing bowl
  • Whisk
  • Spatula
  • colander

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Cook the Pasta: Bring salted water to a boil, add pasta, and cook until slightly softer than al dente, about 9-10 minutes. Drain and rinse under cold water.
  2. Make the Dressing: Whisk lemon juice, zest, vinegar, and mustard in a bowl. Gradually whisk in olive oil until emulsified. Stir in walnuts, capers, salt, and pepper.
  3. Combine Ingredients: Toss the rinsed pasta with the dressing mixture to ensure even coating and flavor absorption.
  4. Add Greens: Fold in arugula and basil (if using) until well-distributed but still crisp.
  5. Serve and Enjoy: Transfer to a serving bowl, garnish with extra walnuts or Parmesan if desired, and serve immediately.

Nutrition

Serving: 1bowlCalories: 320kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 10gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 3gPolyunsaturated Fat: 5gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 10mgSodium: 400mgPotassium: 250mgFiber: 5gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 15mgCalcium: 150mgIron: 2mg

Notes

Use fresh ingredients for the best flavor and a vibrant presentation. Adjust seasonings to taste and consider customizing with seasonal veggies or proteins.

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