Lemon Parmesan Pasta Salad
A refreshing and zesty pasta salad with lemon, Parmesan, and rotini, perfect for warm weather gatherings.
Ingredients
Pasta and Dressing
- 1 pound rotini pasta Cook until al dente
- 1 cup Italian dressing Use your favorite brand
- Juice of 2 lemons lemons Freshly squeezed for best flavor
Add-Ins and Seasoning
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese Can use pre-grated for convenience
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley For garnish and flavor
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt Adjust to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper Freshly cracked preferred
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
Instructions
Prepare the Pasta
- In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil over medium-high heat.
- Add the rotini pasta and cook according to package instructions, about 10 to 11 minutes, until al dente, stirring occasionally.
Cool the Pasta
- Drain the cooked pasta in a colander and rinse it under cold water to cool.
- Let it drain thoroughly to prevent excess water from diluting the dressing.
Prepare the Dressing
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the Italian dressing, lemon juice, grated Parmesan cheese, chopped parsley, garlic powder, kosher salt, black pepper, and onion powder.
- Mix well until all components are blended.
Combine Ingredients
- Add the cooled pasta to the dressing mixture and stir gently to coat evenly.
Serve
- You can enjoy this pasta salad right away or chill in the refrigerator for a couple of hours for optimal flavor.
Notes
For best results, serve chilled or at room temperature. Pair with grilled chicken or seafood for a complete meal. Store leftovers in an airtight container for 3-4 days.