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Lemon Parmesan Pasta Salad

Zesty Lemon Parmesan Pasta Salad for Your Perfect Summer Days

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This Lemon Parmesan Pasta Salad is a vibrant summer side that blends zesty flavors and simple ingredients, perfect for any gathering.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 11 minutes
Chill Time 2 hours
Total Time 2 hours 21 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Salads
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 290

Ingredients
  

For the Salad
  • 8 oz Rotini Pasta Can substitute with penne or fusilli if preferred.
  • 1/2 cup Italian Dressing Choose your favorite brand for the best overall taste.
  • 1/4 cup Lemon Juice Freshly squeezed for brightness.
  • 1/2 cup Grated Parmesan Cheese Be generous for maximum deliciousness!
  • 1/4 cup Fresh Parsley Chopped to add color and herbal note.
  • 1 tsp Garlic Powder Enhances flavor profile.
  • 1 tsp Onion Powder Adds layer of savory richness.
  • 1 tsp Kosher Salt Balances flavors.
  • 1/2 tsp Black Pepper Adjust according to taste.
Optional Add-Ins
  • Veggies Bell peppers or blanched asparagus are great options.
  • Protein Cooked shrimp or chicken can be added.

Equipment

  • large pot
  • colander
  • Mixing Bowl
  • Spatula

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions for Lemon Parmesan Pasta Salad
  1. Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil over high heat. Add the rotini pasta and cook according to the package instructions, typically 10-11 minutes, until al dente. Once cooked, drain the pasta in a colander and rinse thoroughly with cold water to stop the cooking process and cool it down.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the prepared Italian dressing, freshly squeezed lemon juice, grated Parmesan cheese, chopped parsley, garlic powder, onion powder, kosher salt, and black pepper. Whisk these ingredients together until the mixture is well blended and smooth.
  3. Add the cooled rotini pasta to the bowl with the dressing mixture. Gently stir the pasta with a spatula or wooden spoon, ensuring each piece is thoroughly coated.
  4. You can either serve the Lemon Parmesan Pasta Salad immediately or cover the bowl and refrigerate for a couple of hours to allow the flavors to meld.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 290kcalCarbohydrates: 36gProtein: 8gFat: 13gSaturated Fat: 4gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 12mgSodium: 590mgPotassium: 180mgFiber: 2gSugar: 1gVitamin A: 400IUVitamin C: 10mgCalcium: 150mgIron: 1mg

Notes

Use fresh ingredients, consider undercooking the pasta slightly, and allow it to chill for more intense flavors. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

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