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Lemony Pasta Salad Crisped: 1 Amazing Twist

Lemony Pasta Salad Crisped

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A vibrant Lemony Pasta Salad with the delightful crunch of crisped capers, perfect for summer gatherings. This vegetarian, mayo-free dish offers a bright flavor profile with chewy pasta, briny olives, and zesty lemon.

Ingredients

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  • 8 ounces Short Pasta (fusilli or penne)
  • 3 tablespoons Crisped Capers (rinsed and dried well before frying)
  • 1 cup Smashed Green Olives
  • 1/4 cup Freshly Squeezed Lemon Juice
  • 1/4 cup Chopped Parsley (or basil)
  • 1 medium Softened Onion (yellow onion or shallots)
  • 2 tablespoons Caramelized Tomato Paste (canned)
  • 1 tablespoon Extra Crisped Capers (for topping)
  • Salt and Pepper to taste
  • Olive oil (for frying and optional drizzle)

Instructions

  1. Cook the pasta in salted boiling water until al dente (about 8-10 minutes). Drain and let it cool slightly.
  2. Heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the rinsed and dried capers and fry for 2-3 minutes until golden and crispy. Remove and drain on paper towels.
  3. In the same skillet, sauté the chopped onion for about 5 minutes until softened and translucent.
  4. Stir the tomato paste into the sautéed onions and cook for 2-3 minutes until it darkens slightly, caramelizing.
  5. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta, smashed olives, lemon juice, chopped parsley, and the onion-tomato mixture. Gently toss to combine.
  6. Season the salad with salt and pepper to taste.
  7. Garnish the Lemony Pasta Salad with the crisped capers on top.
  8. Serve immediately or refrigerate for a few hours to allow flavors to meld, then serve.

Notes

  • For best results, rinse and thoroughly dry capers before frying to ensure crispiness.
  • Always use freshly squeezed lemon juice for optimal brightness.
  • Allow the salad to marinate for at least 30 minutes after mixing for enhanced flavors.
  • Cook pasta to al dente to avoid a mushy salad.
  • Taste and adjust seasoning as you go.
  • Add crisped capers just before serving to maintain their crunch.

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