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Lemon Parmesan Pasta Salad

Zesty Lemon Parmesan Pasta Salad for Perfect Summer Gatherings

Lemon Parmesan Pasta Salad is a refreshing dish, perfect for summer gatherings, bursting with zesty lemon and creamy Parmesan flavors.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Chilling Time 2 hours
Total Time 2 hours 20 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Lunch
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 350

Ingredients
  

For the Salad
  • 1 pound Rotini Pasta Feel free to substitute with short pasta like penne or fusilli.
  • 1 cup Italian Dressing Choose your favorite brand for convenience.
  • 2 pieces Fresh Lemons Freshly squeezed juice is best.
  • 1 cup Grated Parmesan Cheese Freshly grated offers the best texture and taste.
  • 1/4 cup Fresh Parsley Consider substituting with basil or other herbs.
  • 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder Fresh garlic can add a stronger kick.
  • 1 teaspoon Kosher Salt Sea salt or table salt are good alternatives.
  • 1/2 teaspoon Black Pepper Adjust according to your taste preference.
  • 1/2 teaspoon Onion Powder Fresh onion can be included for more flavor.

Equipment

  • Large pot
  • mixing bowl
  • Measuring cups
  • Measuring spoons

Method
 

Step‑by‑Step Instructions
  1. Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil over high heat. Add the rotini pasta and cook according to package instructions, usually about 10 to 11 minutes until al dente. Stir occasionally, then drain and rinse under cold water.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, combine Italian dressing with the freshly squeezed juice of 2 lemons, grated Parmesan cheese, chopped parsley, garlic powder, kosher salt, black pepper, and onion powder. Whisk until well blended.
  3. After the pasta has cooled, add it to the dressing mixture and gently stir until every piece of pasta is coated in the dressing.
  4. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or transfer to an airtight container and refrigerate for at least 2 hours. Before serving, give the salad another gentle stir.

Nutrition

Serving: 1cupCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 10gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 5gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 3gCholesterol: 20mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 200mgFiber: 2gSugar: 1gVitamin A: 100IUVitamin C: 10mgCalcium: 150mgIron: 1mg

Notes

This pasta salad tastes even better after chilling, so prepare it ahead of time. Use fresh ingredients for the best flavor and consider adding proteins or vegetables for extra nutrition.

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