Are you craving a vibrant, refreshing, and incredibly flavorful meal that's also quick to prepare? Look no further than this zesty lemon pasta salad! This easy recipe is perfect for a light lunch, a picnic side dish, or a simple yet delicious weeknight dinner. It's bursting with fresh flavors, making it one of the best recipes for those warm summer days when you want something light and satisfying. This healthy meal is also easily customizable, so feel free to experiment and make it your own!
Ingredients:
- 1 pound pasta (rotini, farfalle, or your favorite shape)
- 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice (about 2 large lemons)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
- 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, halved
- 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
Instructions:
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Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente. Drain the pasta and rinse it under cold water to stop the cooking process. Set aside to cool slightly.
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Prepare the dressing: In a large bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. You might want a little more lemon juice or olive oil depending on your preferences.
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Combine everything: Add the cooled pasta to the bowl with the dressing. Gently toss to coat the pasta evenly.
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Add the remaining ingredients: Stir in the parsley, basil, feta cheese, olives, and cherry tomatoes. Gently toss again to combine all the ingredients.
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Chill and serve: Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. This step is especially important for the best results; the longer it chills, the better it tastes! Serve chilled and enjoy!
Tips for the Best Lemon Pasta Salad:
- Use good quality ingredients: The flavor of this dish truly shines when you use fresh, high-quality ingredients. Freshly squeezed lemon juice and good olive oil make a noticeable difference.
- Don't overcook the pasta: Al dente pasta is key here. Overcooked pasta will become mushy and unpleasant in the salad.
- Add protein: For a heartier meal, add grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas to the salad.
- Adjust the seasoning: Taste the dressing and adjust the salt, pepper, and lemon juice according to your preference.
Variations:
- Add vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers, cucumbers, or artichoke hearts.
- Different cheeses: Goat cheese or Parmesan cheese can be substituted for feta cheese.
- Spicy kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This recipe's nutritional information varies depending on the specific ingredients used and serving size. However, it's generally considered a healthy and balanced meal offering a good source of carbohydrates from pasta, healthy fats from olive oil, and protein from feta cheese (if included). For a precise nutritional breakdown, use a nutrition calculator and input your specific ingredients.
This delicious and easy lemon pasta salad is a perfect example of quick dinner ideas and homemade cooking at its finest. It's a versatile dish that can be adapted to suit your taste and dietary needs. Enjoy this flavorful and refreshing pasta salad, a true testament to simple yet satisfying food recipes.