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Lemon Arugula Pasta Salad

Lemon Arugula Pasta Salad

  • Author: Christopher
  • Total Time: 25 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Diet: Gluten Free

Description

This Lemon Arugula Pasta Salad is a vibrant and refreshing dish featuring tender pasta, peppery arugula, and smoky turkey bacon, all tossed in a bright, natural lemon dressing with plant-based Parmesan-style cheese. Perfect as a light main or a flavorful side, it combines zesty, savory, and crisp textures in every bite.

Ingredients

Scale

Greens and Pasta

  • 4 cups fresh arugula
  • 8 ounces short pasta (such as rotini, penne, or farfalle; gluten-free if desired)

Dressing

  • 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice (natural)
  • 1/4 cup olive oil (natural)
  • 2 teaspoons vegetarian Worcestershire sauce
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder (natural)
  • Salt, to taste
  • Freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Protein and Toppings

  • 4 slices smoked turkey bacon
  • 1/4 cup shaved Parmesan-style cheese (plant-based)

Instructions

  1. Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add your choice of short pasta and cook until al dente according to the package instructions. Drain the pasta and rinse under cold water to cool and stop cooking.
  2. Prepare the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together fresh lemon juice (natural), olive oil (natural), vegetarian Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder (natural), salt, and freshly ground black pepper until well combined. This creates a bright and zesty dressing base.
  3. Cook Smoked Turkey Bacon: Heat a skillet over medium heat and cook the smoked turkey bacon slices until they are golden brown and crisp. Transfer to paper towels to drain excess fat, then chop into bite-sized pieces.
  4. Assemble the Salad: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta, fresh arugula, and chopped smoked turkey bacon. Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss gently to evenly coat all ingredients.
  5. Add Cheese and Final Touches: Sprinkle the shaved Parmesan-style cheese (plant-based) over the salad and toss lightly once more. Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt, pepper, or lemon juice as needed before serving.

Notes

  • Use fresh lemon juice for the best bright and fresh flavor.
  • Do not overcook the pasta to keep a firm texture in the salad.
  • Rinse pasta under cold water immediately after cooking to prevent clumping and to cool it for the salad.
  • Add arugula just before serving to maintain its crispness and vibrant color.
  • Adjust salt, pepper, or lemon juice to suit your personal taste while tossing the salad.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Category: Appetizers
  • Method: No Baking
  • Cuisine: Mediterranean

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 cup
  • Calories: 280
  • Sugar: 2g
  • Sodium: 350mg
  • Fat: 15g
  • Saturated Fat: 3g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 12g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 27g
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Protein: 10g
  • Cholesterol: 15mg

Keywords: lemon arugula pasta salad, lemon pasta salad, arugula pasta salad, smoky turkey bacon salad, plant-based cheese salad, quick pasta salad

Find it online: https://easyrecipeplanet.com/lemon-arugula-pasta-salad/