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Lemon Arugula Pasta Salad

Lemon Arugula Pasta Salad: A Fresh Twist on Classic Greens

A vibrant Lemon Arugula Pasta Salad featuring fresh arugula, zesty lemon, and crunchy walnuts, perfect for any occasion.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Salads
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 350

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta
  • 8 oz Pasta could use gluten-free pasta
For the Greens
  • 1 cup Arugula could substitute with spinach
For the Crunch
  • ½ cup Walnuts finely chopped; pecans or almonds can be used
For the Creaminess
  • cup Parmesan or Pecorino cheese finely grated; nutritional yeast for a vegan option
For the Zest
  • 1 whole Lemon juice and zest
For the Dressing
  • 8 Tb Olive oil
  • 1 tsp Salt
  • ½ tsp Black Pepper
  • 1 Tb Capers plus 1 tsp brine
  • 1 Tb White balsamic vinegar
  • 2 tsp Dijon mustard
For the Extra Touch
  • 6 leaves Basil leaves optional, chiffonade-style

Equipment

  • large pot
  • Medium mixing bowl
  • Whisk
  • Tongs
  • serving platter

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add pasta and cook for 8-10 minutes, then drain and rinse under cold water.
  2. In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together lemon zest, lemon juice, white balsamic vinegar, and Dijon mustard. Gradually add olive oil while whisking to emulsify. Fold in walnuts, capers, salt, and pepper.
  3. Add cooled pasta to the dressing mixture and gently toss to coat.
  4. Gently fold in arugula and basil leaves, being careful not to bruise the arugula.
  5. Serve on a platter, topping with additional cheese and walnuts if desired. Best enjoyed immediately.

Nutrition

Serving: 1bowlCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 40gProtein: 10gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 4gPolyunsaturated Fat: 6gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 15mgSodium: 300mgPotassium: 400mgFiber: 5gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 25mgCalcium: 200mgIron: 2mg

Notes

Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Keep dressing separate until serving to maintain freshness.

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