Lemon Capellini Salad Recipe | Easy Summer Pasta
Light, zesty, and full of flavor—this Lemon Capellini Salad is the perfect summer pasta dish. Made with delicate capellini noodles, fresh herbs, and a tangy lemon dressing, it’s quick to prepare and ideal for picnics, potlucks, or weeknight dinners. A refreshing twist on classic pasta salad that’s both elegant and effortless.
Prep Time 15 minutes mins
Cook Time 5 minutes mins
Total Time 20 minutes mins
Course Light Lunch, Salad, Side Dish
Cuisine Italian-inspired, Mediterranean
Servings 6
Calories 250 kcal
- Capellini (angel hair pasta)
- Olive oil
- Fresh lemon juice and zest
- Salt and black pepper
- Fresh herbs (parsley, basil, or mint)
- Optional: cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, bell peppers, parmesan or feta
Cook Pasta: Boil capellini in salted water for 2–3 minutes until al dente. Drain and rinse lightly if serving cold.
Prepare Dressing: Whisk olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, salt, and pepper until blended.
Toss Pasta: Combine warm pasta with dressing to absorb flavor.
Add Vegetables & Herbs: Fold in fresh vegetables and herbs.
Serve: Enjoy immediately warm, or chill for 30 minutes for a refreshing cold salad.
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Capellini cooks very quickly—watch closely to avoid mushy pasta.
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Use fresh lemon zest for maximum flavor.
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Whole-grain or gluten-free pasta works well as a substitute.
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Store leftovers in the fridge for 2–3 days; refresh with extra lemon juice before serving.
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Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas for a protein boost.
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Garnish with parmesan or feta for extra richness.
Keyword angel hair pasta salad, healthy lemon pasta, lemon capellini salad, lemon pasta salad recipe, Mediterranean pasta salad, Summer Pasta Dish