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Lemon Capellini Pasta Salad

Lemon Capellini Pasta Salad for a Refreshing Summer Feast

This Lemon Capellini Pasta Salad is a light, vibrant dish that's perfect for summer gatherings, combining fresh ingredients and zesty flavors in just 20 minutes.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 5 minutes
Chilling Time 1 hour
Total Time 1 hour 25 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Salad
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 250

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta
  • 8 oz Capellini Pasta can substitute with angel hair if needed
For the Dressing
  • 1/4 cup Fresh Lemon Juice always opt for freshly squeezed for the best taste
  • 1/4 cup Olive Oil choose extra virgin for enhanced flavor
  • 1 tsp Salt adjust based on your preference
  • 1 tsp Granulated Garlic Powder fresh garlic can be used if preferred
For the Salad
  • 1 large Tomato any variety will work wonderfully
  • 1/4 cup Fresh Basil Leaves can be substituted with parsley if unavailable
  • 1/2 cup Freshly Grated Parmesan Cheese consider nutritional yeast for a dairy-free option
  • 2 tbsp Capers omit if you prefer a milder taste
Optional Add-On
  • 1 cup Pre-cooked Shrimp great way to elevate the salad!

Equipment

  • Pot
  • Mixing bowl
  • colander

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil over high heat. Once boiling, add the capellini pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, about 3-4 minutes. Drain the pasta in a colander and rinse it under cold water to stop the cooking process. Allow the pasta to cool slightly while you prepare the dressing.
  2. In a medium-sized mixing bowl, combine freshly squeezed lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and granulated garlic powder. Whisk together until the mixture is smooth and well-blended, approximately 1-2 minutes.
  3. In a large mixing bowl, transfer the cooled capellini pasta. Pour the prepared dressing over the pasta, and gently toss to combine. Add freshly grated Parmesan cheese, chopped tomatoes, and capers, stirring carefully until all ingredients are evenly coated.
  4. Cover the mixing bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate the salad for at least 1 hour before serving.
  5. Just before serving, tear fresh basil leaves into smaller pieces and sprinkle them on top of the chilled salad.

Nutrition

Serving: 1cupCalories: 250kcalCarbohydrates: 35gProtein: 8gFat: 10gSaturated Fat: 2gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 7gCholesterol: 5mgSodium: 400mgPotassium: 300mgFiber: 2gSugar: 4gVitamin A: 400IUVitamin C: 20mgCalcium: 150mgIron: 1mg

Notes

Use the freshest ingredients for the best flavor. Adjust the garlic and salt levels to personal preference.

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