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Lemon Parmesan Pasta Salad

Lemon Parmesan Pasta Salad That Brightens Your Summer Meals

Lemon Parmesan Pasta Salad is a refreshing and customizable dish perfect for summer gatherings.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 11 minutes
Chilling Time 2 hours
Total Time 2 hours 21 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Salad
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 300

Ingredients
  

For the Salad
  • 8 oz Rotini Pasta Substitution: Penne or fusilli can work as alternatives.
  • 1 cup Italian Dressing Use any favorite brand of Italian dressing.
  • 1/4 cup Lemon Juice Always use fresh lemons for best results.
  • 1/2 cup Grated Parmesan Cheese Substitution: Pecorino Romano can be used for a sharper taste.
  • 1/4 cup Fresh Parsley Substitution: Other fresh herbs like basil or thyme can be used.
  • 1 tsp Garlic Powder Fresh minced garlic can also be used if preferred.
  • 1 tsp Kosher Salt
  • 1 tsp Black Pepper
  • 1 tsp Onion Powder

Equipment

  • large pot
  • colander
  • Mixing Bowl
  • Spatula or Spoon

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions for Lemon Parmesan Pasta Salad
  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil over high heat. Add the rotini pasta and cook for 10 to 11 minutes, or until al dente. Drain the pasta well in a colander and rinse it under cold water to stop the cooking process.
  2. In a spacious mixing bowl, whisk together the Italian dressing, freshly squeezed lemon juice, and grated Parmesan cheese. Then, add the chopped parsley, garlic powder, kosher salt, black pepper, and onion powder. Stir the mixture relentlessly until all the ingredients are fully combined.
  3. Once the pasta is cooled and drained, transfer it to the bowl with the dressing mixture. Gently stir the pasta, ensuring every piece is well-coated with the dressing.
  4. Place it in the refrigerator for at least 1 to 2 hours before serving to allow the flavors to meld.

Nutrition

Serving: 1cupCalories: 300kcalCarbohydrates: 42gProtein: 10gFat: 12gSaturated Fat: 4gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 7gCholesterol: 15mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 250mgFiber: 3gSugar: 1gVitamin A: 400IUVitamin C: 15mgCalcium: 150mgIron: 1mg

Notes

Use fresh lemon juice and herbs for the best flavor. Refrigerate for at least one hour before serving to enhance flavors. Consider adding fresh vegetables or proteins for extra texture and taste.

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