There’s something utterly charming about a light, fresh pasta salad that instantly transports you to sun-soaked Mediterranean terraces where laughter dances in the air, and vibrantly colored dishes overflow with seasonal produce. This Lemon Capellini Salad embodies that spirit, embodying simplicity while impressing with its bright flavors. Whenever I whip up this delightful dish, I am reminded of afternoons spent gathering with friends, sharing stories and smiles, with each forkful echoing a fond memory. This is not just a recipe for me; it’s an open invitation to savor the joys of good food and great company.
Recipe Timing
- Prep Duration: 10 minutes
- Active Cooking: 5 minutes
- Total Duration: 15 minutes
- Portion Size: Serves 4
- Complexity: Simple
Nutritional Recipe
- Calories per portion: Approximately 330
- Protein: 10 g
- Carbs: 42 g
- Fats: 15 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Sugars: 2 g
- Sodium: 210 mg
Why You’ll Love This Lemon Capellini Salad
This Lemon Capellini Salad is everything you crave in a summer dish—refreshing, zesty, and full of gorgeous colors that make you want to dig in. The capellini pasta serves as a delicate canvas, perfectly capturing the vibrant dressing of olive oil, zesty lemon, and fragrant basil. The halved cherry tomatoes add bursts of sweetness, while the grated Parmesan cheese introduces a savory richness that ties it all together. Whether you’re enjoying a casual picnic or hosting a lively dinner party, this salad shines as the star of the show.
The Complete Cooking Journey
The journey of creating this Lemon Capellini Salad is remarkably quick and filled with simple, rewarding steps that anyone can tackle. Let’s dive into the process!
Ingredients:
- 8 oz capellini pasta
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Method:
Step 1: Cook the Capellini
Cook the capellini pasta according to package instructions. Once it’s al dente, drain it and set aside, allowing it to cool slightly.
Step 2: Whisk the Dressing
In a large bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, salt, and black pepper. This will create a delicious, aromatic dressing that will elevate your salad.
Step 3: Toss in the Pasta
Add the cooked capellini to the bowl, tossing gently to ensure every strand is coated with the vibrant dressing.
Step 4: Fold in the Goodness
Gently fold in the halved cherry tomatoes, chopped basil, and grated Parmesan cheese, creating a colorful mixture that looks as good as it tastes.
Step 5: Chill and Serve
Serve immediately or, if you have the patience, chill in the refrigerator for 30 minutes before serving to let the flavors meld together beautifully.
Serving Suggestions & Pairings
This Lemon Capellini Salad is wonderfully versatile. It can be enjoyed as a light lunch, paired with grilled chicken, or served alongside crispy fish for dinner. For an extra touch, consider serving it with a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc, or perhaps a refreshing sparkling lemonade.
Storage & Leftovers Guide
If you have leftovers (though highly unlikely!), store the salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The pasta may absorb some of the dressing over time, so give it a quick toss with a drizzle of olive oil before enjoying it again.
Kitchen Wisdom & Success Tips
- To ensure the capellini doesn’t stick together, you might toss it in a bit of olive oil after draining.
- For added zest, consider infusing your olive oil with garlic or red pepper flakes before whisking it into the dressing.
- Fresh herbs can make a significant difference—use basil straight from the garden if possible.
Flavor Variations & Adaptations
Feel free to switch it up! Incorporate seasonal ingredients like arugula, spinach, or even diced cucumber for an extra crunch. If you prefer a kick, add some crushed red pepper flakes, or substitute the Parmesan with feta for a tangy twist.
Reader Questions & Solutions
-
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, any pasta shape will work, but capellini adds a lovely delicate texture. -
Is this dish gluten-free?
To make it gluten-free, opt for gluten-free pasta varieties. -
Can I meal prep this salad?
Absolutely! Just add the dressing right before serving to keep the pasta fresh. -
What can I substitute for basil?
Fresh parsley or arugula can be great alternatives if you’re out of basil. -
How can I make this a protein-packed meal?
Add grilled chicken or chickpeas for an easy twist that makes it more filling.
Wrapping Up
As you bring this Lemon Capellini Salad to life, I hope you feel inspired to share not just a meal, but a moment with those you love. Every bite is a reminder of the simple joys in life, a celebration of flavors that awaken the senses. Invite the sunshine into your kitchen, and let this refreshing dish be your next culinary adventure. Happy cooking!
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Lemon Capellini Salad
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A refreshing summer dish featuring capellini pasta with a zesty lemon dressing, cherry tomatoes, and fresh basil.
Ingredients
- 8 oz capellini pasta
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Cook the capellini pasta according to package instructions. Once it’s al dente, drain it and set aside, allowing it to cool slightly.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, salt, and black pepper to create a delicious dressing.
- Add the cooked capellini to the bowl, tossing gently to ensure every strand is coated with the dressing.
- Gently fold in the halved cherry tomatoes, chopped basil, and grated Parmesan cheese.
- Serve immediately or chill in the refrigerator for 30 minutes before serving to let the flavors meld together.
Notes
To keep the pasta from sticking, toss it in a little olive oil after draining. For extra flavor, try infusing your olive oil with garlic or red pepper flakes.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: Mixing
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 330
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 210mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 42g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 10g
- Cholesterol: 10mg
