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Lemon Parmesan Pasta Salad

Lemon Parmesan Pasta Salad for Refreshing Summer Vibes

This Lemon Parmesan Pasta Salad is a refreshing, quick choice that combines zesty lemon and rich Parmesan for a delightful summer dish.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 11 minutes
Chill Time 2 hours
Total Time 2 hours 26 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Salads
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 250
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Salad
  • 8 oz Rotini Pasta Opt for gluten-free pasta to meet dietary needs.
  • 1 cup Italian Dressing Try making your own for a fresher taste.
  • 1/4 cup Fresh Lemon Juice Always use freshly squeezed lemon juice for the best flavor.
  • 1 cup Grated Parmesan Cheese For a dairy-free option, use nutritional yeast or plant-based Parmesan.
  • 1/4 cup Chopped Parsley Swap with fresh basil for a unique twist.
  • 1 tsp Garlic Powder Fresh minced garlic can provide a more intense taste.
  • 1 tsp Kosher Salt Adjust to personal taste preferences.
  • 1/2 tsp Black Pepper Freshly ground is best for maximum flavor.
  • 1 tsp Onion Powder Finely chopped fresh onion can also be used for more texture.

Equipment

  • Large pot
  • Colander
  • Mixing bowl
  • Whisk
  • Spatula

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions for Lemon Parmesan Pasta Salad
  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil over medium-high heat. Add the rotini pasta and cook according to the package instructions for about 10 to 11 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. The pasta should be al dente, tender yet firm to the bite, before draining.
  2. Once cooked, drain the pasta in a colander and immediately rinse it under cold running water. This helps stop the cooking process and cools the pasta down quickly.
  3. In a large mixing bowl, combine the Italian dressing, fresh lemon juice, grated Parmesan cheese, chopped parsley, garlic powder, kosher salt, black pepper, and onion powder. Whisk the ingredients together until well blended.
  4. Add the cooled rotini pasta to the bowl with the dressing mixture. Gently toss the pasta until it is fully coated with the dressing.
  5. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or transfer the salad to an airtight container. Place it in the refrigerator and let it chill for at least 2 hours.
  6. Before serving, give the salad a good stir to redistribute the ingredients. The Lemon Parmesan Pasta Salad is now ready to be enjoyed.
    Lemon Parmesan Pasta Salad

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 250kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 10gFat: 11gSaturated Fat: 4gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 7gCholesterol: 10mgSodium: 400mgPotassium: 200mgFiber: 3gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 15IUVitamin C: 20mgCalcium: 15mgIron: 5mg

Notes

This salad is a guaranteed hit at picnics, barbecues, or family dinners. Ensure to chill for best flavor.

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