What pasta shape is best for pasta salad?

Short, sturdy pasta shapes with ridges or crevices, like rotini, penne, farfalle (bowties), or fusilli, are best for pasta salad. They hold the dressing and other ingredients well.

How long does lemon herb pasta salad last?

Lemon herb pasta salad typically lasts for 3-5 days in the refrigerator when stored properly in an airtight container.

What herbs go well with lemon?

Excellent herbs to pair with lemon include basil, parsley, thyme, oregano, dill, and chives.

How do you keep pasta salad from drying out?

To prevent pasta salad from drying out, add a little extra dressing initially, and consider stirring in a tablespoon or two of olive oil or mayonnaise just before serving to refresh the moisture.

Can I make lemon herb pasta salad ahead of time?

Yes, lemon herb pasta salad is a great make-ahead dish! Preparing it a few hours or even a day in advance allows the flavors to meld together.

What protein goes with pasta salad?

Grilled chicken, shrimp, chickpeas, feta cheese, mozzarella pearls, or salami are great protein additions to pasta salad.

Lemon Herb Pasta Salad: Your New Go-To for Easy, Flavorful Dinners 2026

Lemon Herb Pasta Salad

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A vibrant and energizing pasta salad packed with fresh herbs and a light, citrusy dressing. It’s a simple, satisfying meal perfect for warm evenings, potlucks, or easy weeknight dinners. The flavors are bright and fresh, making it a reliable go-to recipe.

Author: Harmony
Prep Time: 15min
Cook Time: 10min
Total Time: 25min
Yield: 6 servings 1x
Category: lunch
Method: boiling
Cuisine: Mediterranean

Ingredients

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1 pound short pasta (like fusilli, farfalle, or penne)
1/3 cup extra virgin olive oil
Zest and juice of 2 large lemons (about 1/3 cup juice)
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup
1/2 teaspoon kosher salt, plus more for pasta water
1/4 teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1 English cucumber, diced
1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
1 cup crumbled feta cheese
1/2 cup chopped fresh parsley
1/4 cup chopped fresh dill
1/4 cup chopped fresh basil

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Instructions

Cook the pasta in a large pot of well-salted boiling water according to package directions until al dente. Drain and rinse briefly under cool water. Let drain well.
While the pasta cooks, make the dressing. In a large bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, minced garlic, Dijon mustard, honey, salt, and pepper until emulsified.
Add the drained pasta to the bowl with the dressing and toss to coat.
Gently fold in the cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, and crumbled feta cheese.
Right before serving, stir in the chopped fresh parsley, dill, and basil. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
Let the salad sit for 15-20 minutes at room temperature to allow the flavors to meld before serving.

Notes

For best results, add the fresh herbs last to keep them vibrant. The salad can be made ahead and stored in the fridge for 3-4 days. For a gluten-free version, use GF pasta. Omit feta for a dairy-free option.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 6
Calories: 380
Sugar: 6
Sodium: 450
Fat: 16
Saturated Fat: 5
Unsaturated Fat: 10
Trans Fat: 0
Carbohydrates: 48
Fiber: 4
Protein: 12
Cholesterol: 25

Find it online: https://harmonymeal.com/lemon-herb-pasta-salad/