Creamy Lemon Parmesan Pasta Salad
A delightful and refreshing pasta salad that combines zesty lemon, creamy Parmesan cheese, and rotini pasta, perfect for summer gatherings or quick weeknight dinners.
Ingredients
For the Base
- 1 pound rotini pasta Can substitute with fusilli or gluten-free pasta.
For the Sauce
- 1 cup Italian dressing Homemade dressing can be used for a fresher taste.
- 2 lemons Juice of 2 lemons Freshly squeezed for best flavor.
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese Use freshly grated for the best flavor.
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley Can substitute with fresh basil or dill.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder For added flavor.
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt Adjust to taste.
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
To Serve
- 1 bunch additional parsley for garnish (optional) Adds freshness when serving.
Instructions
Preparation
- Cook the rotini pasta according to package instructions, usually 10-11 minutes, until al dente.
- Drain the pasta and rinse it under cold water to stop the cooking process. Let it drain well.
- In a large bowl, mix together the Italian dressing, lemon juice, grated Parmesan cheese, chopped parsley, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and onion powder until well combined.
- Add the drained pasta to the sauce mixture and stir until the pasta is fully coated.
- You can serve it immediately for a fresh dish or chill it for a couple of hours to deepen the flavors. Stir well before serving if chilled.
Notes
For extra creaminess, consider adding a touch of sour cream or Greek yogurt to the dressing. Adjust the seasoning after adding the pasta to ensure full flavor.