Lemon Arugula Pasta Salad for a Bright, Fresh Twist
Lemon Arugula Pasta Salad for a Bright, Fresh Twist is the ultimate dish for anyone looking to infuse their meals with vibrant flavors and fresh ingredients. This delightful pasta salad combines the peppery taste of arugula with zesty lemon, creating a refreshing experience that’s perfect for any occasion—from casual lunches to festive gatherings. Ready in just 20 minutes, this easy-to-make vegetarian delight is not only nutritious but also visually appealing, making it an ideal addition to your table. Enjoy the satisfying crunch from walnuts and the tanginess of a homemade dressing that elevates every bite.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 4
- Category: Salad
- Method: Mixing
- Cuisine: Italian-inspired
Ingredients
Scale
- 8 oz pasta (Farfalle or orzo)
- 1 cup arugula (or spinach)
- ½ cup walnuts (finely chopped)
- Juice and zest of 1 lemon
- 8 Tb olive oil
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 1 Tb capers (plus brine)
- 1 Tb white balsamic vinegar
- 2 tsp Dijon mustard
Instructions
- Cook the pasta in salted boiling water until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water.
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together lemon juice and zest, olive oil, salt, black pepper, capers with brine, white balsamic vinegar, and Dijon mustard.
- In a large bowl, combine cooked pasta and arugula. Pour dressing over the mixture and toss to coat evenly.
- Top with chopped walnuts and cheese (or nutritional yeast) before serving.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (200g)
- Calories: 360
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 400mg
- Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 24g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 26g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 8g
- Cholesterol: 7mg