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Cold Lemon Capellini Salad

Refreshing Cold Lemon Capellini Salad for a Light Summer Feast

Enjoy a light and refreshing Cold Lemon Capellini Salad perfect for summer gatherings.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 5 minutes
Chill Time 1 hour
Total Time 1 hour 20 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Salad
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 250

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta
  • 8 oz Capellini (or Angel Hair Pasta) substitute with gluten-free pasta for a gluten-free option.
For the Dressing
  • 2 Lemons The tangy star flavor of the salad.
  • 1/4 cup Olive Oil (Extra Virgin) adds richness and depth.
  • 1 tsp Garlic Powder or granules; feel free to swap for fresh garlic.
  • 1 tsp Salt essential for enhancing all the flavors.
For the Salad Mix
  • 1/4 cup Capers opt for small pickled capers for an intense flavor.
  • 1 cup Fresh Basil Leaves fresh is always best for that garden-fresh flavor.
  • 1/2 cup Parmesan Cheese freshly grated gives the best taste.
  • 1 cup Grape Tomatoes slicing them in half enhances the texture and look.
Optional Garnish
  • 1 tsp Lemon Zest a sprinkle before serving brightens everything up.

Equipment

  • Large pot
  • Mixing Bowl
  • colander
  • Whisk

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions for Cold Lemon Capellini Salad
  1. Fill a large pot with water and bring it to a rolling boil over high heat. Add a generous tablespoon of salt, then add the capellini and cook according to the package instructions, usually around 3-4 minutes.
  2. While the pasta is cooking, squeeze the juice from the lemons into a mixing bowl, adding extra virgin olive oil, salt, and garlic powder. Whisk until well combined.
  3. Once the capellini is cooked, drain it and let it cool for a few minutes. Combine the warm pasta with the dressing, halved grape tomatoes, capers, and Parmesan cheese, tossing gently.
  4. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or transfer to an airtight container. Refrigerate the salad for at least one hour to meld the flavors.
  5. Before serving, toss in fresh basil leaves and sprinkle with lemon zest. Mix gently to incorporate all ingredients.
  6. Serve the Cold Lemon Capellini Salad in bowls or on plates, garnishing with additional Parmesan and capers as desired.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 250kcalCarbohydrates: 35gProtein: 7gFat: 10gSaturated Fat: 2gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 7gCholesterol: 5mgSodium: 420mgPotassium: 200mgFiber: 2gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 15IUVitamin C: 30mgCalcium: 10mgIron: 5mg

Notes

This salad is best enjoyed chilled, making it a light and delightful dish for summer feasts or casual gatherings.

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