Get ready to tantalize your taste buds with the most refreshing and zesty pasta salad that will transport you straight to the sun-drenched coastlines of Italy! This Lemon Capellini Pasta Salad is not just a recipe—it's a culinary escape that promises to revolutionize your summer dining experience. With its delicate angel hair pasta, burst of fresh cherry tomatoes, and bright, citrusy dressing, this dish is about to become your new obsession. Whether you're hosting a backyard barbecue or craving a light, sophisticated meal, this recipe is guaranteed to impress even the most discerning food lovers.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 10 mins
Total Time: 20 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 8 oz capellini pasta
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup olives, sliced
- 1/4 cup lemon juice
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil for garnish
Instructions
- Fill a large pot with water and add a generous pinch of salt. Bring the water to a rolling boil over high heat.
- Add capellini pasta to the boiling water and cook according to package instructions, typically 3-4 minutes, until the pasta is al dente. Be careful not to overcook, as capellini is very thin and can become mushy quickly.
- While the pasta is cooking, prepare the other ingredients. Halve the cherry tomatoes and slice the olives. Chop fresh basil leaves for garnish.
- Once pasta is cooked, drain immediately in a colander and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process and cool the pasta down.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together fresh lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and freshly ground black pepper to create the dressing.
- Add the cooled pasta to the bowl with the dressing and toss gently to coat all pasta strands evenly.
- Fold in the halved cherry tomatoes and sliced olives, mixing carefully to distribute ingredients.
- Cover the pasta salad and refrigerate for at least 15-20 minutes to allow flavors to meld together.
- Before serving, garnish with fresh basil leaves and adjust seasoning if needed.
- Serve chilled as a refreshing side dish or light summer meal.
Tips
- Pasta Perfection: Always cook capellini pasta al dente—it takes just 3-4 minutes! Watch it closely to prevent overcooking, as thin pasta can turn mushy quickly.
- Cooling Technique: Rinse your pasta with cold water immediately after cooking to stop the cooking process and prevent clumping. This ensures a light, separate texture.
- Flavor Infusion: Let the pasta salad chill in the refrigerator for at least 15-20 minutes before serving. This allows the dressing to penetrate the pasta and blend the flavors beautifully.
- Fresh is Best: Use freshly squeezed lemon juice and high-quality olive oil for the most vibrant and authentic taste.
- Herb Hack: Tear basil leaves instead of chopping to release more aromatic oils and prevent bruising.
- Make-Ahead Magic: This pasta salad can be prepared a day in advance, making it perfect for meal prep or entertaining.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 350kcal
Carbohydrates: 40g
Protein: 8g
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 0mg
