Zesty Lemon Arugula Pasta

Category: Fresh and Filling Salads

This vibrant pasta dish combines al dente whole wheat pasta with peppery arugula, sweet cherry tomatoes, and savory Parmesan cheese. The simple lemon and olive oil dressing brings bright acidity that perfectly balances the ingredients. Ready in just 15 minutes, it works beautifully as a light main course or side dish. Serve chilled for a refreshing summer meal or at room temperature to enhance the flavors. The dish stores well for up to 3 days, making it perfect for meal prep.

Fatiha
By Fatiha Fatiha
Last updated Sun, 10 Aug 2025 18:39:37 GMT
A bowl of pasta salad with arugula and lemon. Pin
A bowl of pasta salad with arugula and lemon. | zestplate.com

This vibrant lemon arugula pasta salad transforms basic ingredients into a refreshing meal perfect for warm days. The bright citrus notes complement the peppery arugula, creating a light yet satisfying dish that comes together in minutes.

I first made this pasta salad for a summer picnic when I needed something that could withstand sitting out for a few hours. It was such a hit that it's now my go-to contribution for potlucks and the dish my friends specifically request when we gather.

Ingredients

  • Whole wheat pasta adds nutty flavor and extra fiber making this salad more satisfying
  • Fresh arugula brings a peppery bite look for bright green leaves without any wilting
  • Freshly squeezed lemon juice provides essential brightness bottled just isn't the same
  • Extra virgin olive oil use your best quality for this simple dressing as the flavor really shines through
  • Grated Parmesan cheese adds savory depth and umami choose freshly grated over prepackaged for best flavor
  • Cherry tomatoes contribute juicy sweetness and beautiful color select firm ones with vibrant color

How To Make Lemon Arugula Pasta Salad

Cook the pasta
Bring a large pot of heavily salted water to a rolling boil before adding pasta. Cook until just al dente about 8 minutes for most varieties. The pasta should offer slight resistance when bitten. Immediately drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process and prevent sticking.
Prepare the dressing
In a small bowl whisk together the freshly squeezed lemon juice and extra virgin olive oil until emulsified. Season generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper. The dressing should taste slightly more potent than you think necessary as the pasta will absorb some flavor.
Assemble the salad
In your largest mixing bowl combine the cooled pasta with fresh arugula cherry tomatoes and most of the Parmesan reserving a small amount for garnish. The arugula will wilt slightly from the residual warmth of the pasta creating the perfect texture.
Dress and serve
Pour the lemon dressing over the salad ingredients and toss gently using tongs or two large spoons. Ensure everything is evenly coated without crushing the delicate ingredients. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed then transfer to a serving dish and sprinkle with remaining Parmesan.

This pasta salad reminds me of summers in my grandmother's garden where we would pick fresh arugula and tomatoes just before lunch. The simplicity of the ingredients lets their quality shine through in a way that always transports me back to those sunny afternoons.

A bowl of pasta salad with arugula and lemon.
A bowl of pasta salad with arugula and lemon. | zestplate.com

Storing Your Pasta Salad

This salad keeps beautifully in the refrigerator for up to three days making it perfect for meal prep. Store in an airtight container and if making ahead consider adding half the arugula initially and stirring in the remaining fresh greens just before serving. This maintains the perfect texture balance between wilted and fresh arugula. The flavors actually improve overnight as the pasta absorbs the lemony dressing.

Simple Variations

The beauty of this pasta salad lies in its adaptability. Try adding pine nuts or walnuts for crunch and healthy fats. Toss in some chopped fresh herbs like basil or mint for aromatic complexity. Crumbled goat cheese can replace Parmesan for a tangier profile. For protein consider adding flaked canned tuna or sliced grilled chicken. Each variation maintains the integrity of the bright lemony base while creating a slightly different experience.

Serving Suggestions

This versatile salad works beautifully alongside grilled fish or as a light lunch on its own. For entertaining serve it family style on a large platter garnished with lemon wedges and fresh arugula leaves. During cooler months warm the pasta slightly before adding other ingredients for a comforting twist. The bright flavors pair exceptionally well with crisp white wines like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio.

A bowl of pasta salad with tomatoes and arugula.
A bowl of pasta salad with tomatoes and arugula. | zestplate.com

Recipe FAQs

→ Can I make this pasta salad ahead of time?

Yes! This pasta salad actually improves with a little time as the flavors meld together. You can prepare it up to 24 hours in advance and store it in the refrigerator. For best results, add the arugula just before serving to maintain its freshness and prevent wilting.

→ What protein would pair well with this dish?

This versatile dish pairs beautifully with grilled chicken, salmon, or shrimp. For vegetarian options, try adding white beans, chickpeas, or grilled tofu cubes to boost the protein content while maintaining the light, fresh profile.

→ Can I substitute the arugula with another green?

Absolutely! While arugula provides a distinctive peppery flavor, you can substitute with baby spinach for a milder taste, mixed spring greens for variety, or kale (massaged with a bit of the dressing first) for a heartier texture.

→ Is there a dairy-free alternative to the Parmesan cheese?

For a dairy-free version, you can use nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor, or a plant-based Parmesan alternative. You could also add toasted pine nuts or walnuts for richness and texture that would complement the other ingredients nicely.

→ How can I add more flavor to this pasta salad?

To enhance the flavor profile, consider adding minced garlic or shallots to the dressing, incorporating fresh herbs like basil or mint, adding capers or olives for brininess, or including lemon zest for more citrus intensity. A pinch of red pepper flakes can also add a pleasant heat.

→ What's the best pasta shape to use for this salad?

Short pasta shapes that can hold the dressing work best. Try fusilli, farfalle (bow ties), orecchiette, or penne. These shapes have nooks and crannies that capture the dressing and small ingredients, ensuring flavor in every bite.

Lemon Arugula Pasta Salad

Light pasta tossed with peppery arugula, tangy lemon dressing, cherry tomatoes and Parmesan for a refreshing summer dish.

Preparation Time
15 min
Cooking Time
10 min
Total Duration
25 min
By Fatiha: Fatiha

Category: Salads

Skill Level: Easy

Cuisine: Italian

Output: 4 Servings (4 main course servings)

Dietary Preferences: Vegetarian

Ingredients

→ Pasta

01 225g whole wheat or gluten-free pasta

→ Vegetables

02 4 cups fresh arugula
03 1 cup halved cherry tomatoes

→ Dressing

04 2 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice
05 3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
06 Salt and pepper to taste

→ Dairy

07 ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

Directions

Step 01

Cook the pasta in salted boiling water until al dente (about 8-10 minutes). Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process.

Step 02

In a small bowl, whisk together lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper until emulsified.

Step 03

In a large bowl, combine the cooled pasta, fresh arugula, halved cherry tomatoes, and grated Parmesan cheese.

Step 04

Pour the prepared dressing over the salad and toss gently until all ingredients are evenly coated.

Step 05

Adjust seasoning if needed and serve chilled or at room temperature for optimal flavor.

Notes

  1. This salad can be prepared up to 4 hours in advance and refrigerated. Add the arugula just before serving to maintain its crispness.

Required Equipment

  • Large pot for boiling pasta
  • Colander
  • Mixing bowls
  • Whisk

Allergen Information

Review each component for possible allergens and consult a health professional when concerned.
  • Contains dairy (Parmesan cheese)
  • May contain gluten if using whole wheat pasta

Nutritional Information (per serving)

These figures serve as estimates and are not a substitute for medical advice.
  • Calories: 320
  • Fat: 14.5 g
  • Carbohydrates: 42 g
  • Protein: 12 g