Lemon Capellini Pasta Salad: The Ultimate Lemon Capellini Pasta Salad Recipe
Introduction to Lemon Capellini Pasta Salad
If you’re looking for a light, refreshing dish that’s bursting with flavor, look no further than this Lemon Capellini Pasta Salad. Perfect for warm weather gatherings or as a quick weeknight dinner, this salad combines the delicate texture of capellini pasta with the zesty brightness of fresh lemon juice and the savory bite of capers. It’s not only delicious but also simple to prepare, making it a go-to recipe for anyone who enjoys cooking.
A Personal Story Behind My Lemon Capellini Pasta Salad Journey
I remember the first time I tasted a lemon pasta salad at a family picnic. The flavors danced on my palate, and I was instantly hooked. Since then, I’ve experimented with various recipes, but this Lemon Capellini Pasta Salad holds a special place in my heart. It reminds me of sunny days spent with loved ones, sharing laughter and good food. I hope that this dish brings you the same joy it has brought me!
What Makes This Lemon Capellini Pasta Salad Recipe Special?
What sets this Lemon Capellini Pasta Salad apart is its simplicity and the vibrant combination of ingredients. The capellini pasta cooks quickly, and when tossed with the bright lemon dressing, it absorbs all the wonderful flavors. The addition of diced tomatoes adds a touch of sweetness, while the capers provide a lovely salty contrast. Plus, it’s a versatile dish that can be served as a side or a light main course. Perfect for any occasion!
The Full Lemon Capellini Pasta Salad Recipe
Ingredients
- 8 oz capellini pasta
- Juice of 2 medium lemons + 1 tsp lemon zest
- 3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 1 ½ tsp garlic salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ½ cup diced tomatoes, seeds removed
- 3 tbsp capers, drained
- 1 tbsp curly leaf parsley, finely chopped
Instructions
- Begin by cooking the capellini pasta in a large pot of salted boiling water until tender, about 3-5 minutes. Be sure to stir occasionally to prevent sticking. Once cooked, drain the pasta and rinse it with cool water to stop the cooking process.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the juice of the lemons, olive oil, garlic salt, and black pepper until well combined. This dressing is what brings all the flavors together, so whisk well!
- Add the cooked pasta, diced tomatoes, and capers to the bowl with the dressing. Gently toss everything together to ensure the pasta is well coated.
- Finally, stir in the freshly chopped parsley and give the salad one last toss to combine all the ingredients evenly.
- Serve the lemon capellini pasta salad immediately for the best flavor, or refrigerate it until you’re ready to serve. This salad can be enjoyed cold or at room temperature, making it great for meal prep!
Serving Suggestions and Variations for Lemon Capellini Pasta Salad
This Lemon Capellini Pasta Salad is incredibly versatile. You can serve it as a side dish alongside grilled chicken or fish for a complete meal. For a vegetarian option, consider adding some roasted vegetables or chickpeas to amp up the nutritional content. If you want to add a touch of creaminess, sprinkle some grated Parmesan cheese on top before serving. This salad also pairs wonderfully with a light white wine or sparkling water with a lemon wedge.
Frequently Asked Questions About Lemon Capellini Pasta Salad
Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the salad a few hours in advance. Just keep it covered in the refrigerator until you’re ready to serve.
How long does this pasta salad last in the fridge?
This Lemon Capellini Pasta Salad can last for up to 3 days in the refrigerator, though it’s best enjoyed fresh.
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes! While capellini is recommended for its delicate texture, you can use other pasta shapes like fusilli or rotini for a different bite.
Is this recipe suitable for a gluten-free diet?
You can make this salad gluten-free by using gluten-free pasta. It’s just as delicious and refreshing!
Enjoy this refreshing and zesty pasta salad as a light and flavorful meal!
Recipe Stats
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time: 5 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Calories per Serving: 280
- Servings: 4
Lemon Capellini Pasta Salad
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 8 oz capellini pasta
- 2 medium lemons Juice and zest
- 3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 1.5 tsp garlic salt
- 0.5 tsp black pepper
- 0.5 cup diced tomatoes seeds removed
- 3 tbsp capers drained
- 1 tbsp curly leaf parsley finely chopped
Instructions
- Cook the capellini pasta in a large pot of salted boiling water until tender, about 3-5 minutes.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the lemon juice, olive oil, garlic salt, and black pepper.
- Add the cooked pasta, diced tomatoes, and capers to the bowl. Toss everything together.
- Stir in the freshly chopped parsley and give the salad one final toss to combine.
- Serve immediately or refrigerate until ready to serve.