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Lemon Arugula Pasta Salad

Lemon Arugula Pasta Salad

  • Author: Anthony
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Diet: Gluten Free

Description

Bright, fresh, and packed with vibrant flavors, this Lemon Arugula Pasta Salad combines peppery arugula, tender pasta, smoky turkey bacon, and creamy plant-based cheese with a lively lemon dressing. Perfect for warm days and casual gatherings, it offers a refreshing balance of tang, texture, and savory goodness in every bite.

Ingredients

Scale

Pasta and Greens

  • 2 cups short pasta (fusilli, penne, or rotini)
  • 4 cups fresh arugula

Dressing

  • 3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
  • 1 teaspoon lemon zest
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • 4 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar (natural)
  • 1 teaspoon vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural)
  • Salt and cracked black pepper, to taste

Additional Ingredients

  • 4 slices smoked turkey bacon
  • 1/2 cup shredded plant-based cheese
  • 2 tablespoons fresh basil, chopped
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

Instructions

  1. Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain well and rinse with cold water to cool it quickly and stop cooking. Set aside.
  2. Prepare the Smoked Turkey Bacon: While the pasta cooks, heat a skillet over medium heat and cook the smoked turkey bacon until crispy. Remove from heat, drain excess fat on paper towels, and crumble or chop into bite-sized pieces.
  3. Make the Lemon Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together fresh lemon juice, lemon zest, minced garlic, extra virgin olive oil, apple cider vinegar (natural), and vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural). Season with salt and cracked black pepper to taste.
  4. Assemble the Salad: In a large bowl, combine cooled pasta, fresh arugula, chopped fresh basil and parsley, shredded plant-based cheese, and smoked turkey bacon. Pour the lemon dressing over the top and toss thoroughly to coat every ingredient evenly.
  5. Serve and Enjoy: Let the salad rest for 5-10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed, then serve fresh for the best flavor and texture.

Notes

  • Cook pasta al dente to ensure a pleasant bite and prevent sogginess.
  • Use freshly squeezed lemon juice and zest for the brightest flavor.
  • Toss salad just before serving to keep arugula crisp and fresh.
  • Refrigerate the salad for 20 minutes before serving to deepen flavors.
  • Lightly toast fresh herbs in the pan with bacon fats for extra aroma.
  • Reserve some pasta water to loosen the dressing if needed.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Category: Appetizers
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: Mediterranean

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 cup
  • Calories: 280
  • Sugar: 3g
  • Sodium: 470mg
  • Fat: 12g
  • Saturated Fat: 3g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 8g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 30g
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Protein: 10g
  • Cholesterol: 15mg

Keywords: lemon arugula pasta salad, summer salad, fresh pasta salad, plant-based cheese salad, smoked turkey bacon salad

Find it online: https://homedishideas.com/lemon-arugula-pasta-salad/