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Lemon Arugula Pasta Salad

A vibrant pasta salad with arugula and zesty lemon dressing, perfect for picnics or light dinners.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Salad, Side Dish
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Calories: 320
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Pasta and Greens
  • 8 oz pasta (farfalle, orzo, or favorite short pasta) Choose a shape that holds dressing well.
  • 3.5 oz fresh arugula Peppery greens give this salad a vibrant bite.
Dressing
  • 1/2 cup walnuts (finely chopped) Adds crunch and helps the dressing cling to the pasta.
  • 1/3 cup finely grated Parmesan or Pecorino cheese Fresh-grated tastes best compared to pre-shredded.
  • 1 unit lemon (juice and zest) Zest brings citrus perfume, juice adds acidity.
  • 8 Tb olive oil Quality oil deepens flavor and smooths the dressing.
  • 1 Tb white balsamic vinegar Brightens the lemon for a more complex flavor.
  • 2 tsp Dijon mustard Helps emulsify the dressing.
  • 1 Tb capers Adds a salty briny punch.
  • 1 tsp salt To enhance all the flavors.
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper Freshly cracked adds the best aroma.
  • 6 leaves basil (chiffonade, optional) Optional herbaceous note.

Method
 

Cooking the Pasta
  1. Boil the pasta in salted water just until tender—slightly softer than al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool and wash off excess starch.
Making the Dressing
  1. In a large bowl, whisk together lemon juice, lemon zest, white balsamic vinegar, Dijon, salt, pepper, capers, and chopped walnuts.
  2. Gradually drizzle in the olive oil while whisking until everything combines beautifully.
Combining Ingredients
  1. Toss the cooled, rinsed pasta into the bowl with the lemon dressing. Gently mix so every piece gets coated with that bright, tangy goodness.
  2. Now, toss in the fresh arugula and basil (if using). The warmth from the pasta will slightly wilt the arugula, making it even tastier!

Notes

This salad keeps well in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. Store pasta and dressing separately for freshness. To enhance flavor, avoid overcooking the pasta.