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Lemon Parmesan Pasta Salad

Zesty Lemon Parmesan Pasta Salad for Bright Summer Days

Lemon Parmesan Pasta Salad is a refreshing, crowd-pleasing dish that brightens summer gatherings.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 11 minutes
Chill Time 2 hours
Total Time 2 hours 21 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Salad
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 250

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta
  • 1 pound Rotini Pasta Feel free to swap with penne or fusilli if preferred.
For the Dressing
  • 1 cup Italian Dressing Select your favorite brand for best results.
  • 2 lemons Lemons Freshly squeezed for brightness.
  • 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder Adjust based on your taste preferences.
  • 1 teaspoon Kosher Salt Can be substituted with sea salt if preferred.
  • 1 teaspoon Black Pepper Freshly ground is recommended for optimal flavor.
  • 1 teaspoon Onion Powder Can be omitted if you're out.
For the Toppings
  • 1 cup Grated Parmesan Cheese Using freshly grated cheese ensures the best texture.
  • 1/4 cup Fresh Parsley Can be substituted with basil or thyme as desired.

Equipment

  • Large pot
  • Colander
  • mixing bowl
  • spatula

Method
 

Cooking Steps
  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil over high heat. Add the rotini pasta and cook according to the package instructions for about 10-11 minutes, until al dente. Once done, drain it in a colander, then rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the Italian dressing, lemon juice, grated Parmesan cheese, chopped parsley, garlic powder, kosher salt, black pepper, and onion powder until the mixture is smooth.
  3. Add the cooled rotini pasta to the bowl with the dressing mixture. Use a spatula or wooden spoon to gently stir and coat the pasta thoroughly with the dressing.
  4. Refrigerate the salad for at least two hours before serving to enhance the flavors, or serve immediately if in a hurry.

Nutrition

Serving: 1cupCalories: 250kcalCarbohydrates: 35gProtein: 8gFat: 10gSaturated Fat: 3gPolyunsaturated Fat: 0.5gMonounsaturated Fat: 6gCholesterol: 10mgSodium: 400mgPotassium: 150mgFiber: 2gSugar: 1gVitamin A: 200IUVitamin C: 25mgCalcium: 150mgIron: 1mg

Notes

This pasta salad is best enjoyed fresh, but can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days.

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