Zesty Lemon Pasta Salad 

This Zesty Lemon Pasta Salad offers a vibrant and refreshing take on traditional pasta salads. The combination of bright lemon flavors, crisp vegetables, and al dente pasta makes it an ideal side dish for picnics, barbecues, or light lunches. Its zesty dressing and colorful ingredients are sure to delight your taste buds and add a burst of freshness to any meal.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients

• 1 lb (16 oz) pasta (such as fusilli, rotini, or penne)

• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

• 1 cucumber, diced

• 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced

• 1/2 cup red bell pepper, diced

• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped

• 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped

• 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil

• 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice

• 1 teaspoon lemon zest

• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard

• 1/2 teaspoon honey (optional)

• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Directions

1. Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process.

2. Prepare the Vegetables: While the pasta is cooking, prepare the vegetables. Halve the cherry tomatoes, dice the cucumber and red bell pepper, and thinly slice the red onion. Chop the fresh parsley and basil.

3. Make the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, Dijon mustard, and honey (if using). Season with salt and pepper to taste.

4. Assemble the Salad: In a large bowl, combine the cooled pasta with the prepared vegetables and herbs. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine, ensuring all ingredients are evenly coated.

5. Chill and Serve: Cover the salad and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld. Serve chilled or at room temperature.

Nutritional Information (per serving)

• Calories: Approximately 220 kcal

• Carbohydrates: 30 g

• Protein: 6 g

• Fat: 9 g

• Saturated Fat: 1 g

• Fiber: 3 g

• Sugar: 4 g

• Sodium: 50 mg