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Zesty Lemon Arugula Pasta Salad

Zesty Lemon Arugula Pasta Salad for Refreshing Summer Days

A delightful Zesty Lemon Arugula Pasta Salad recipe packed with vibrant flavors perfect for summer gatherings.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Chilling Time 15 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Salads
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 400

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta
  • 8 oz pasta (e.g., Barilla Penne) Provides the base structure; short pasta shapes hold the dressing beautifully.
For the Salad
  • 4 oz arugula Adds a peppery freshness; don't toss in until just before serving to keep it crisp.
  • 8 leaves basil, hand-torn Enhances flavor without bruising; tearing preserves the aromatic oils.
  • 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved Brings sweetness and a pop of color to the salad.
  • 2/3 cup walnuts, toasted and chopped Adds a crunchy texture and nuttiness; toasting intensifies the flavor.
  • 1/3 cup Parmesan cheese, grated Infuses creaminess and depth into each bite.
For the Dressing
  • 1.5 lemons, zested and juiced Provides the vibrant, tangy acidity; fresh juice elevates the flavor.
  • 3/4 cup olive oil (e.g., Lucini Premium Select) Binds the dressing together while adding richness.
  • 1 Tbsp white balsamic vinegar Balances the flavors in your dressing beautifully.
  • 2 tsp Dijon mustard Serves as an emulsifier, giving the dressing a silky texture.
  • 1 Tbsp capers Adds a briny punch that complements the lemon perfectly.
  • 1 tsp caper brine Supports flavor complexity in the dressing.
  • 1 1/4 tsp salt Elevates and enhances all the flavors.
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper Introduces a subtle hint of spice.
  • 1/2 tsp honey A touch of sweetness that balances the acidity of the dressing.

Equipment

  • large pot
  • skillet
  • mixing bowl

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. In a dry skillet over medium heat, toast the chopped walnuts for 3-4 minutes, stirring frequently until they turn golden and fragrant.
  2. While the walnuts cool, zest and juice 1.5 lemons, and set aside the juice for the dressing. Tear 8 fresh basil leaves into pieces, halve the cherry tomatoes, and grate the parmesan cheese.
  3. Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add 8 oz of pasta and cook for 1-2 minutes less than package directions for al dente.
  4. In a large mixing bowl, combine the lemon juice, zest, white balsamic vinegar, Dijon mustard, capers, caper brine, honey, salt, and black pepper. Whisk these ingredients together until well combined, then gradually drizzle in 3/4 cup of olive oil while whisking continuously.
  5. Add the slightly cooled pasta to the bowl with the dressing, and toss gently to coat the pasta evenly. Then, fold in the toasted walnuts, grated parmesan, halved cherry tomatoes, and torn basil leaves.
  6. Finally, just before serving, add 4 oz of peppery arugula to the pasta salad and toss lightly to combine.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 400kcalCarbohydrates: 40gProtein: 10gFat: 25gSaturated Fat: 3gPolyunsaturated Fat: 6gMonounsaturated Fat: 15gCholesterol: 10mgSodium: 300mgPotassium: 250mgFiber: 4gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 25mgCalcium: 200mgIron: 2mg

Notes

Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to three days. Refresh with a splash of olive oil and lemon juice if the salad dries out.

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