Looking for a vibrant and refreshing dish that will elevate your meal game? Dive into the delightful world of our Herb and Arugula Pasta Salad! Bursting with fresh flavors and a zesty lemon dressing, this Italian-inspired salad is not just a side dish—it's a celebration of summer on a plate! With just 30 minutes of your time, you can whip up a mouthwatering salad that serves six, making it perfect for gatherings or a quick weeknight dinner. Ready to impress your taste buds and your guests? Let’s get cooking!
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 10 mins
Total Time: 30 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 8 ounces pasta (your choice)
- 4 cups arugula
- 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/2 cup olive oil
- 1/4 cup lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Fill a large pot with water and add a generous pinch of salt. Bring the water to a rolling boil over high heat.
- Add the pasta to the boiling water and cook according to package instructions until al dente, typically 8-10 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- While pasta is cooking, prepare a large bowl of ice water to quickly cool the pasta after cooking and stop the cooking process.
- Once pasta is cooked, drain in a colander and immediately transfer to the ice water bath to halt cooking and prevent overcooking.
- Drain the pasta again and pat dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and freshly ground black pepper to create the dressing.
- Add the cooled pasta to the dressing and gently toss to coat evenly.
- Fold in the halved cherry tomatoes, chopped fresh basil, and chopped fresh parsley.
- Gently mix in the arugula, ensuring it's lightly dressed but not wilted.
- Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.
- Cover and refrigerate for 15-20 minutes to allow flavors to meld together before serving.
- Serve chilled or at room temperature as a refreshing side dish or light meal.
Tips
- Choose the Right Pasta: Opt for pasta shapes that hold onto the dressing well, such as fusilli or penne. They add a delightful texture to the salad.
- Don’t Skip the Ice Bath: Cooling the pasta in an ice bath is crucial. It stops the cooking process and keeps your pasta perfectly al dente, preventing it from becoming mushy.
- Fresh Herbs Matter: Use fresh basil and parsley for a burst of flavor. Dried herbs just won’t cut it in this fresh salad!
- Customize Your Ingredients: Feel free to add other veggies like cucumbers or bell peppers for extra crunch and color. You can also toss in some feta or mozzarella for a cheesy twist.
- Chill for Flavor: Allow the salad to sit in the refrigerator for 15-20 minutes before serving. This helps the flavors meld beautifully, making every bite a taste sensation!
- Adjust to Your Taste: Don’t hesitate to tweak the dressing. If you prefer a tangier flavor, add a splash more lemon juice or a pinch of red pepper flakes for a hint of heat.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 309kcal
Carbohydrates: 30g
Protein: 5g
Fat: 19g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 0mg
