Go Back
+ servings
Lemon Parmesan Pasta Salad

Zesty Lemon Parmesan Pasta Salad for a Cool Summer Treat

This Lemon Parmesan Pasta Salad is a refreshing, quick dish perfect for summer gatherings, bursting with zesty flavors.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 11 minutes
Chill Time 2 hours
Total Time 2 hours 26 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Salads
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 320

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta
  • 8 ounces tri-colored rotini pasta or substitute with penne or fusilli
For the Dressing
  • 1 cup Italian dressing store-bought
  • 1/4 cup fresh-squeezed lemon juice for zesty kick
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese adds creaminess
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley for freshness
For Seasoning
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder for savory depth
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder enhances aroma and taste
  • to taste kosher salt balance flavors
  • to taste black pepper adds warmth

Equipment

  • large pot
  • Colander
  • Mixing bowl
  • Spatula

Method
 

Cooking Instructions
  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the tri-colored rotini pasta and cook according to package instructions, about 10-11 minutes, until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water.
  2. In a mixing bowl, combine the Italian dressing, lemon juice, Parmesan cheese, and parsley. Add garlic powder, onion powder, and season with salt and pepper. Whisk until well blended.
  3. Add the cooled pasta to the dressing mixture and gently fold until the pasta is well-coated.
  4. Transfer to a serving dish or keep in the mixing bowl. Chill in the refrigerator for about 2 hours before serving.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 320kcalCarbohydrates: 38gProtein: 9gFat: 16gSaturated Fat: 4gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 4gCholesterol: 10mgSodium: 550mgPotassium: 200mgFiber: 3gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 15mgCalcium: 200mgIron: 2mg

Notes

This salad can incorporate additional veggies or proteins for a customizable dish. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

Tried this recipe?

Let us know how it was!