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Lemon Parmesan Pasta Salad

Lemon Parmesan Pasta Salad: A Zesty Summer Delight

This Lemon Parmesan Pasta Salad is a refreshing summer dish bursting with vibrant flavors and zesty lemon.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 11 minutes
Chilling Time 2 hours
Total Time 2 hours 26 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Salads
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 350

Ingredients
  

For the Salad
  • 1 pound Rotini Pasta Substitution: Feel free to use penne or fusilli for a different shape.
  • 1 cup Italian Dressing Choose your favorite brand for a quick and easy option.
  • 2 tablespoons Lemon Juice Fresh-squeezed lemon juice enhances the overall taste.
  • 1 cup Grated Parmesan Cheese Substitution: Shredded cheese can be used if you prefer.
  • 1/4 cup Chopped Fresh Parsley Substitution: Fresh basil or thyme can be delightful alternatives.
  • 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder Substitution: Use fresh minced garlic if you want a stronger taste.
  • 1 teaspoon Kosher Salt Adjust according to your taste preferences.
  • 1/2 teaspoon Black Pepper Freshly cracked pepper works best for flavor.
  • 1/2 teaspoon Onion Powder Substitution: Diced fresh onion can provide a crunch.

Equipment

  • Large pot
  • Mixing Bowl
  • colander

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add 1 pound of rotini pasta and cook according to the package instructions, about 10-11 minutes, until al dente. Once cooked, drain the pasta in a colander and rinse it under cold water to stop the cooking process, allowing it to cool completely.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together 1 cup of Italian dressing, the juice of 2 fresh lemons, and 1 cup of grated Parmesan cheese. Then, sprinkle in 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, 1 teaspoon of kosher salt, 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper, and 1/2 teaspoon of onion powder. Mix all the ingredients until well-combined.
  3. Add the cooled rotini pasta to the dressing mixture in the bowl. Gently stir to ensure that every piece of pasta gets a generous coating of the flavorful dressing.
  4. Next, fold in 1/4 cup of chopped fresh parsley into the pasta salad. This adds a pop of color and freshness.
  5. For enhanced flavor, cover the bowl with plastic wrap or transfer the salad into an airtight container, and place it in the refrigerator for a few hours (ideally 2-4 hours).
  6. Before serving, give the salad a gentle stir to mix any settled dressing. Serve it chilled or at room temperature.

Nutrition

Serving: 1cupCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 12gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 6gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 7gCholesterol: 20mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 200mgFiber: 3gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 10IUVitamin C: 25mgCalcium: 15mgIron: 10mg

Notes

Prepare the salad a day in advance for enhanced flavor. Best enjoyed cold or at room temperature.

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