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–+ servings
Zesty Lemon Arugula Pasta Salad

Zesty Lemon Arugula Pasta Salad Ready in 15 Minutes

A vibrant Zesty Lemon Arugula Pasta Salad that's fresh, quick, and customizable, perfect for any meal!
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Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 15 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Salads
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 350
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta
  • 300 g Short Pasta Substitute with gluten-free pasta for a gluten-free option.
For the Greens
  • 150 g Fresh Arugula Can be swapped with spinach or mixed greens.
For the Vegetables
  • 250 g Cherry Tomatoes Halved; grape tomatoes can be an alternative.
For the Cheese
  • 60 g Parmesan Cheese Freshly shaved; substitute with pecorino or dairy-free cheese.
For the Nuts
  • 50 g Pine Nuts Can be replaced with sunflower seeds or walnuts.
For the Dressing
  • 2 cloves Garlic Minced; garlic powder can be used as a substitute.
  • 1 large lemon Lemon Zest Provides a bright citrus flavor.
  • 60 ml Fresh Lemon Juice Always use fresh for best flavor.
  • 120 ml Extra Virgin Olive Oil High-quality oil is preferable.
  • 1 tsp Dijon Mustard Adds tang and helps emulsify the dressing.
  • 1/2 tsp Sea Salt Or to taste.
  • 1/4 tsp Black Pepper Enhances overall flavor.
  • a pinch Red Pepper Flakes Optional for heat.

Equipment

  • Large pot
  • Colander
  • skillet
  • bowl
  • Whisk

Method
 

Step‑by‑Step Instructions
  1. Cook the pasta in salted boiling water until al dente, about 8–10 minutes. Drain without rinsing.
  2. Toast pine nuts in a dry skillet over medium-low heat for 2-3 minutes until golden brown.
  3. Prepare the vinaigrette by combining olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, minced garlic, mustard, salt, and pepper; whisk until emulsified.
  4. Combine warm pasta with three-quarters of the vinaigrette and toss to coat.
  5. Fold in cherry tomatoes, toasted pine nuts, and Parmesan cheese; add arugula until slightly wilted.
  6. Adjust seasoning if needed, garnish with remaining Parmesan, and serve immediately.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 10gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 3gPolyunsaturated Fat: 5gMonounsaturated Fat: 7gCholesterol: 10mgSodium: 400mgPotassium: 300mgFiber: 4gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 750IUVitamin C: 25mgCalcium: 150mgIron: 2mg

Notes

Best enjoyed fresh, but can be refrigerated for up to 2 days. Add arugula just before serving to keep it fresh.

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