Introduction

Lemon pasta salad is a refreshing dish that combines the zing of citrus with the heartiness of pasta, making it perfect for warm weather gatherings or as a light meal. This recipe is not only delicious but also quick and easy to prepare, making it a staple for any occasion. Whether you’re serving it at a barbecue, a picnic, or as a side for dinner, this salad is sure to impress with its bright flavors and vibrant colors.

Detailed Ingredients with measures

– 8 ounces of pasta (such as rotini or penne)
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1 cup cucumber, diced
– 1/2 cup red onion, thinly sliced
– 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
– 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– Juice of 1 lemon
– Zest of 1 lemon
– Salt and pepper to taste

Prep Time

15 minutes

Cook Time, Total Time, Yield

Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Yield: 6 servings

Detailed Directions and Instructions

Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve about 1 cup of pasta cooking water, then drain the pasta and set it aside to cool.

Prepare the Dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, garlic powder, shallots, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper until well combined. Adjust seasoning to taste.

Combine Pasta and Vegetables

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta with chopped cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and fresh herbs like parsley and basil. Toss gently to combine the ingredients evenly.

Add Dressing

Pour the prepared dressing over the pasta and vegetables. Toss gently to coat everything in the dressing. If the pasta seems dry, add a little of the reserved pasta cooking water to achieve the desired consistency.

Chill and Serve

Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate the pasta salad for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. Serve chilled, garnished with extra herbs, if desired.

Notes

Storage

This pasta salad can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Variations

Feel free to customize the salad with your favorite vegetables, such as bell peppers, olives, or spinach.

Serving Suggestions

This lemon pasta salad makes a great side dish for barbecues, picnics, or as a light lunch option.

Make Ahead

You can prepare the dressing a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator until ready to use.

Cook techniques

Cooking Pasta

Cooking pasta to the perfect al dente texture requires bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions, usually around 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.

Preparing the Dressing

To create a flavorful dressing, combine lemon juice, olive oil, garlic, salt, and pepper in a bowl. Whisk the ingredients together until well blended, ensuring a smooth and emulsified mixture.

Chilling the Salad

Once the pasta is cooked and drained, allow it to cool slightly before adding it to the salad ingredients. Chilling the salad in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving enhances the flavors and provides a refreshing taste.

Mixing Ingredients

When mixing the salad, ensure that the cooked pasta is well-coated with the dressing. Toss in your choice of vegetables and herbs evenly for a balanced flavor profile.

FAQ

Can I use a different type of pasta for this salad?

Yes, you can use any pasta shape you prefer; however, smaller shapes like bowties or rotini work well for salads.

How long does the lemon pasta salad last in the refrigerator?

The lemon pasta salad can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days in an airtight container.

Can I add protein to the salad?

Absolutely! Adding grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas can increase the protein content and make the salad more filling.

Is it necessary to use fresh herbs?

While fresh herbs enhance the flavor, you can use dried herbs if fresh ones are unavailable. Just use them sparingly since they are more potent.

Can I make the salad ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the salad a day in advance. Just keep it covered in the refrigerator until you’re ready to serve it.

Conclusion

This lemon pasta salad is a refreshing and zesty dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Its bright flavors and vibrant ingredients make it not only delicious but also visually appealing. Whether served at a picnic, as a side dish, or a main course, this salad is sure to impress.

More recipes suggestions and combination

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Chicken Pesto Pasta Salad

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Greek Pasta Salad

Mix olives, feta cheese, cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and red onion with pasta and a lemon-olive oil dressing for a Mediterranean twist.

Avocado and Shrimp Pasta Salad

Add creamy avocado and succulent shrimp to your pasta salad for a rich flavor and satisfying texture.

Roasted Vegetable Pasta Salad

Incorporate roasted seasonal vegetables with a lemon vinaigrette and pasta for a warm, hearty salad option.