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Lemon Parmesan Pasta Salad

Lemon Parmesan Pasta Salad: A Refreshing Summer Delight

Lemon Parmesan Pasta Salad is a refreshing summer dish bursting with zesty flavors, perfect for picnics and gatherings.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 11 minutes
Chill Time 2 hours
Total Time 2 hours 26 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Salad
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 300

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta
  • 8 ounces Rotini Pasta Can substitute with penne or fusilli
For the Dressing
  • 1 cup Italian Dressing Choose your favorite brand
  • 1/4 cup Fresh Lemon Juice Fresh-squeezed recommended
  • 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder Can substitute with fresh garlic
  • 1 teaspoon Kosher Salt Adjust based on dietary needs
  • 1/2 teaspoon Black Pepper
  • 1 teaspoon Onion Powder Fresh onion can be used for more texture
For the Toppings
  • 1/2 cup Grated Parmesan Cheese Opt for freshly grated if possible
  • 1/4 cup Chopped Fresh Parsley Can substitute with other herbs like basil or thyme

Equipment

  • Large Pot
  • Colander
  • mixing bowl
  • Spatula
  • whisk

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Cook a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the rotini pasta and cook according to package instructions, usually around 10-11 minutes, until al dente. Drain and rinse with cold water.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, combine your Italian dressing and fresh lemon juice. Add grated Parmesan, chopped parsley, garlic powder, onion powder, kosher salt, and black pepper. Whisk until creamy.
  3. Once pasta is cooled, fold it into the dressing mixture, ensuring every piece is well-coated.
  4. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least two hours to enhance flavors. Stir before serving.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 300kcalCarbohydrates: 35gProtein: 10gFat: 14gSaturated Fat: 6gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 5gCholesterol: 20mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 250mgFiber: 2gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 10mgCalcium: 200mgIron: 1mg

Notes

Chill for a few hours to enhance flavor. Drain pasta thoroughly to avoid excess water diluting dressing. Consider adding blanched vegetables for crunch. Can add grilled shrimp or chicken for a main dish. Personalize with different herbs.

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