Zesty Lemon Arugula Pasta Salad: Quick & Fresh Bliss

This Zesty Lemon Arugula Pasta Salad is a burst of brightness and flavor, perfect for easy weeknight meals.

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Prep Time 15

Cook Time 10

Total Time 25

Servings: 4 servings

Course: Salad

Cuisine: Mediterranean

Calories: 350

Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients

For the Pasta

300 g short pasta Use fusilli, penne, or farfalle; gluten-free works too.

For the Vegetables

150 g fresh arugula Peppery green adds zing; spinach can be a milder option.
250 g cherry tomatoes Halved for sweetness; can substitute with grape tomatoes.

For the Cheese

60 g Parmesan cheese Freshly shaved or grated; Pecorino Romano as an alternative.

For the Nuts

50 g pine nuts Toasted for crunch; almonds or walnuts can also work.

For the Dressing

2 cloves garlic Minced to infuse flavor; reduce to 1 clove for milder taste.
1 large lemon zest Adds fragrance and citrus burst; can use more for stronger flavor.
60 ml fresh lemon juice Essential for brightness; avoid bottled juice.
120 ml extra virgin olive oil Gives smooth texture; use high-quality oil.
1 tsp Dijon mustard Helps emulsify dressing; can be omitted.
0.5 tsp sea salt Adjust to taste.
0.25 tsp black pepper Adds spiciness; can swap for white pepper.
a pinch red pepper flakes Optional for those who like an extra kick.

Equipment

Large pot
Dry skillet
Mixing bowl or jar

Method

Step‑by‑Step Instructions

Cook the Pasta: Boil salted water, add pasta, cook until al dente (8-10 minutes), drain without rinsing.
Toast Pine Nuts: In a dry skillet, toast pine nuts over medium-low heat for 2-3 minutes until golden.
Prepare Vinaigrette: Whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, minced garlic, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
Combine Ingredients: Add warm pasta and 3/4 vinaigrette in a bowl, toss with tomatoes, pine nuts, and parmesan.
Fold in Arugula: Gently mix in arugula until slightly wilted, serve immediately garnished with remaining parmesan.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 10gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 3gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 10mgSodium: 300mgPotassium: 500mgFiber: 5gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 2000IUVitamin C: 25mgCalcium: 150mgIron: 2mg

Notes

For best texture, add arugula just before serving. Mix up dressing to suit your taste preferences.

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