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Easy Capellini Pasta Salad with tomatoes, basil, garlic, and lemon juice.

Easy Capellini Pasta Salad — Light Herb

A refreshing and light pasta salad made with capellini noodles, fresh herbs, lemon, and cherry tomatoes, perfect for hot days and meal prep.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 5 minutes
Total Time 15 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Lunch, Salad, Side Dish
Cuisine: Italian, Mediterranean
Calories: 220
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 8 oz Capellini pasta Also known as angel hair pasta.
  • 2 cups Cherry or grape tomatoes, halved Adds sweetness and freshness.
  • 1/2 cup Fresh basil, chopped Feel free to substitute with parsley or dill.
  • 1/4 cup Fresh parsley, chopped Can use other fresh herbs as desired.
  • 1 clove Garlic, minced Optional for added flavor.
  • 1 medium Lemon, zest and juice Provides brightness to the salad.
  • 3 tbsp Olive oil Use extra virgin for best flavor.
  • 1 tsp Salt Adjust to taste.
  • 1/2 tsp Black pepper Freshly cracked is recommended.
  • 1/4 tsp Red pepper flakes Optional for added heat.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Boil water in a large pot and add salt. Cook the capellini according to package instructions, usually around 3-5 minutes.
  2. Once cooked, drain and rinse briefly with cool water to stop the cooking process. Toss immediately with a tablespoon of olive oil to prevent clumping.
  3. In a large mixing bowl, combine the halved tomatoes, chopped basil, parsley, and minced garlic (if using).
  4. Add the capellini to the bowl and mix well.
  5. Zest and juice the lemon, then add it to the salad, along with the remaining olive oil, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if using.
  6. Toss everything together until well combined.
  7. Let the salad sit for 10 to 15 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld.

Notes

This pasta salad can be made up to a day in advance. Store it covered in the fridge, and add a splash of olive oil and lemon juice before serving to refresh the flavors. It lasts about 3 days but is best enjoyed fresh.