Description
A refreshing, zesty pasta salad featuring tangy lemon and rich Parmesan cheese. Perfect for picnics, summer meals, or quick family dinners. Rotini’s ridged texture captures the herbal lemon dressing, offering a balanced bite.
Ingredients
12 oz rotini pasta
1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
Zest and juice of 2 lemons
3 cloves garlic, minced
1/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
2 tbsp dry Italian dressing
1/4 tsp salt
1/4 tsp black pepper
1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
Optional: 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
Optional: 1 cup cooked chickpeas for added protein
Instructions
Boil pasta in salted water until al dente
Rinse with cold water to cool, then drain
In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon zest, lemon juice, garlic, Italian dressing, salt, and pepper
Add drained pasta to the bowl and toss to coat
Fold in Parmesan, parsley, and basil
Chill for at least 30 minutes for flavors to meld
Optional: stir in cherry tomatoes and chickpeas before serving
Notes
Use freshly grated Parmesan for better texture
Substitute cooked chickpeas for a vegetarian version
Stir in grilled chicken or shrimp for added protein
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days