Name: Lemon Capellini Salad
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 15 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 8 oz capellini pasta (or angel hair pasta); Juice of 2 medium lemons; 1 tsp lemon zest; 3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil; 1 ½ tsp garlic salt; ½ tsp black pepper; ½ cup diced tomatoes, seeds removed; 3 tbsp capers, drained; 1 tbsp curly leaf parsley, finely chopped

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Lemon Capellini Salad is a light and refreshing pasta dish that’s perfect for warm weather, picnics, or as a bright side to grilled meats and seafood. Made with delicate capellini pasta (or angel hair), juicy tomatoes, briny capers, and fresh parsley, it’s tossed in a zesty lemon and olive oil dressing for a simple yet flavorful dish that comes together in just 15 minutes.

Lemon Capellini Salad

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and easy: Ready in just 15 minutes—perfect for busy days or last-minute gatherings.
Fresh and flavorful: The lemon juice and zest brighten every bite.
Light and healthy: Low in calories but full of vibrant taste.
Versatile: Works as a side dish or a light main course.
Make-ahead friendly: Tastes even better after chilling in the fridge.
Pairs with everything: Complements seafood, grilled chicken, or sandwiches.
Minimal ingredients: Made with pantry and fresh staples.
Great for meal prep: Stays fresh for several days in the fridge.
Naturally vegetarian: A meatless option with tons of flavor.
Elegant presentation: Looks beautiful served cold or at room temperature.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

8 oz capellini pasta (or angel hair pasta)
juice of 2 medium lemons + 1 tsp lemon zest
3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
1 ½ tsp garlic salt
½ tsp black pepper
½ cup diced tomatoes, seeds removed
3 tbsp capers, drained
1 tbsp curly leaf parsley, finely chopped

Directions

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the capellini pasta and cook until tender, about 2–3 minutes. Be careful not to overcook.
Drain the pasta and rinse with cool water to stop the cooking process.
In a large bowl, whisk together the lemon juice, lemon zest, olive oil, garlic salt, and black pepper until well combined.
Add the cooled pasta, diced tomatoes, and capers to the bowl. Toss everything together until the pasta is evenly coated in the lemon dressing.
Stir in the freshly chopped parsley and toss once more.
Serve immediately, or cover and refrigerate until ready to serve.

Servings and timing

Servings: 6
Prep time: 5 minutes
Cook time: 10 minutes
Total time: 15 minutes

Variations

Add protein: Toss in grilled shrimp, chicken, or flaked tuna for a heartier meal.
Cheese it up: Add crumbled feta or shaved parmesan for richness.
Make it spicy: Sprinkle in crushed red pepper flakes or diced jalapeño.
Go green: Add arugula, spinach, or chopped basil for extra freshness.
Use different pasta: Try orzo, spaghetti, or rotini for a fun twist.
Include olives: Add sliced kalamata or green olives for extra briny flavor.
Roasted veggies: Mix in roasted zucchini, eggplant, or bell peppers.
Vegan version: Already vegan-friendly as written—no changes needed.
Lemon-herb upgrade: Add fresh thyme or dill for more complexity.
Serve warm: Toss while the pasta is still hot for a warm pasta salad.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Before serving again, toss the salad to redistribute the dressing, as it may settle at the bottom. This salad is best enjoyed cold or at room temperature. Reheating is not recommended, as the freshness of the ingredients shines when served chilled.

FAQs

Can I use regular spaghetti instead of capellini?

Yes, spaghetti or any thin pasta will work, though capellini gives the salad a lighter texture.

Should I rinse the pasta after cooking?

Yes, rinse the pasta with cool water to stop the cooking and prevent it from clumping together.

Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Absolutely. It can be made several hours in advance or even the night before. Just toss before serving.

Is this salad served warm or cold?

It’s typically served cold or at room temperature, making it perfect for summer.

What if I don’t have garlic salt?

You can substitute with a mix of garlic powder and salt to taste.

Can I add more vegetables?

Yes, feel free to mix in cucumbers, bell peppers, or artichoke hearts.

What can I use instead of capers?

Chopped green olives or pickled onions make good substitutes for the tangy kick.

Is this recipe vegan?

Yes, it contains no dairy, eggs, or animal products.

Can I double the recipe for a crowd?

Definitely. Just scale up all ingredients evenly and mix in a larger bowl.

How do I zest a lemon?

Use a microplane or fine grater to remove just the yellow outer layer of the lemon skin. Avoid the white pith, which is bitter.

Conclusion

Lemon Capellini Salad is a light, bright, and flavorful pasta dish that’s quick to prepare and perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re serving it as a side at a summer barbecue or enjoying it as a light lunch, its refreshing lemony tang and simple ingredients make it a go-to favorite. Keep it chilled, toss it fresh, and enjoy every bite.

Emma