Lemon Arugula Pasta Salad 

This vibrant and refreshing Lemon Arugula Pasta Salad is the perfect dish to brighten up any meal. Combining the peppery bite of fresh arugula with the zesty tang of lemon, it's a delightful balance of flavors and textures. Ideal for a light lunch, a side at your next barbecue, or a quick weeknight dinner, this salad is as versatile as it is delicious.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients

• 8 oz whole wheat pasta (fusilli or penne recommended)

• 3 cups fresh arugula, loosely packed

• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

• ½ cucumber, diced

• ¼ red onion, thinly sliced

• ½ cup crumbled feta cheese

• 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil

• 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice

• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard

• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

• Red pepper flakes (optional, for a hint of heat)

Directions

1. Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the whole wheat 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 cooling, prepare the vegetables. Halve the cherry tomatoes, dice the cucumber, and thinly slice the red onion.

3. Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta with the arugula, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, and crumbled feta cheese. Gently toss to mix.

4. Make the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper. If using, add red pepper flakes to the dressing.

5. Toss and Serve: Pour the dressing over the pasta mixture and toss gently to coat all ingredients evenly. For best flavor, cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.

Nutritional Information (per serving)

• Calories: Approximately 190 kcal

• Carbohydrates: 4 g

• Protein: 4 g

• Fat: 18 g

• Saturated Fat: 3 g

• Polyunsaturated Fat: 3 g

• Monounsaturated Fat: 11 g

• Cholesterol: 10 mg

• Sodium: 468 mg

• Potassium: 220 mg

• Fiber: 1 g

• Sugar: 2 g

• Vitamin A: 515 IU

• Vitamin C: 9 mg

• Calcium: 151 mg

• Iron: 1 mg