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Lemon Parmesan Pasta Salad

Lemon Parmesan Pasta Salad that Brightens Your Summer Meals

A refreshing Lemon Parmesan Pasta Salad perfect for summer gatherings, bursting with bright citrus flavors.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 11 minutes
Chilling Time 2 hours
Total Time 2 hours 21 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Salads
Cuisine: American
Calories: 300

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta
  • 8 ounces Tri-colored rotini pasta Penne or fusilli are great alternatives.
For the Dressing
  • 1/2 cup Italian dressing Choose your favorite brand.
  • 1/4 cup Fresh lemon juice Fresh-squeezed.
For the Creaminess
  • 1/2 cup Grated Parmesan cheese Avoid using block cheese.
For the Freshness
  • 1/4 cup Fresh parsley Substitute with basil or thyme if desired.
For the Flavor Boost
  • 1 teaspoon Garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon Onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon Kosher salt Adjust to taste.
  • 1/2 teaspoon Black pepper Adjust based on preference.

Equipment

  • Large Pot
  • Mixing Bowl
  • Colander
  • spatula
  • whisk

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add tri-colored rotini pasta and cook for 10-11 minutes until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water.
  2. In a large bowl, combine Italian dressing, lemon juice, and Parmesan cheese. Add parsley, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper, and whisk until blended.
  3. Once the pasta is cooled, gently fold it into the dressing mixture until thoroughly coated.
  4. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours to enhance flavors.

Nutrition

Serving: 1cupCalories: 300kcalCarbohydrates: 35gProtein: 10gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 5gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 20mgSodium: 500mgPotassium: 300mgFiber: 2gSugar: 1gVitamin A: 200IUVitamin C: 10mgCalcium: 150mgIron: 1mg

Notes

Enjoy fresh pasta salad within three days. Customize with vegetables as desired.

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