This Tiny Gnocchetti Pasta Salad is a vibrant summer dish that combines the dense, chewy bite of gnocchetti with the bold, smoky flavor of grilled artichoke hearts. Tossed in a zesty lemon vinaigrette and finished with fresh arugula and shaved Parmesan, it offers a perfect balance of charred depth and citrusy brightness.
Ideal as a Lemon Artichoke Pasta Salad for warm-weather meals, this easy pasta salad can be prepped ahead and enjoyed chilled or at room temperature.
Refreshing Summer Pasta Salad
This Tiny Gnocchetti Pasta Salad is a delightful summer dish that brings together the chewy texture of gnocchetti and the smoky essence of grilled artichoke hearts.
With a zesty lemon vinaigrette and the freshness of arugula, this salad strikes a perfect balance between char and citrus.
It’s an ideal choice for warm-weather meals, and can be enjoyed chilled or at room temperature, making it a versatile option for gatherings or a light meal.
Ingredients That Shine
The star of this dish is undoubtedly the tiny gnocchetti pasta, which provides a satisfying bite.
Complemented by grilled artichoke hearts, fresh arugula, and a sprinkle of shaved Parmesan, each ingredient contributes to a colorful and nutritious salad.
The zesty lemon vinaigrette ties everything together, enhancing the flavors and adding a refreshing touch that’s perfect for summer.
Preparation Made Simple
Preparing this Lemon Artichoke Pasta Salad is straightforward and quick.
In just about 30 minutes, you can have a vibrant dish ready to serve.
Start by cooking the gnocchetti until al dente, then grill the artichokes to bring out their smoky flavor.
Finally, combine everything with the vinaigrette for a harmonious blend of tastes.
The Perfect Pairing
This Arugula Pasta Salad is not only delicious but also visually appealing.
The combination of grilled artichokes and fresh greens creates a stunning presentation that will impress your guests.
Serve it in a rustic bowl, surrounded by fresh lemons and artichokes, to enhance the inviting summer vibe.
Serving Suggestions
This Easy Pasta Salad can be served as a main dish or as a side, making it a versatile addition to any meal.
Pair it with grilled chicken or fish for a complete dinner, or enjoy it on its own for a light lunch.
Don’t forget to garnish with fresh parsley for an extra pop of color and flavor!
Nutrition and Enjoyment
This Tiny Gnocchetti Pasta Salad is not just tasty; it’s also nutritious.
With approximately 320 calories per serving, it offers a balanced meal option that’s rich in flavor without being heavy.
Enjoy this Lemony Pasta Salad as part of your summer dining experience, and savor the delightful combination of textures and tastes.
Refreshing Summer Pasta Salad
This salad features firm gnocchetti pasta paired with grilled artichokes, arugula, and a tangy lemon vinaigrette. It takes about 30 minutes to prepare and serves 4 people, making it a great choice for gatherings or a light meal.
Ingredients
- 8 ounces tiny gnocchetti pasta
- 1 can (14 ounces) artichoke hearts, drained and halved
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 lemon, zested and juiced
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup
- 4 cups fresh arugula
- 1/2 cup shaved Parmesan cheese
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the Gnocchetti: In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the gnocchetti according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process.
- Grill the Artichokes: Preheat a grill or grill pan over medium heat. Toss the artichoke halves with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Grill for about 4-5 minutes on each side until charred and heated through.
- Make the Vinaigrette: In a small bowl, whisk together the lemon juice, lemon zest, Dijon mustard, and honey until combined. Slowly drizzle in olive oil while whisking until emulsified.
- Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the cooked gnocchetti, grilled artichokes, arugula, and vinaigrette. Toss gently to coat all ingredients evenly.
- Serve: Top with shaved Parmesan cheese and garnish with fresh parsley if desired. Serve chilled or at room temperature.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
Nutrition Information
- Servings: 4 servings
- Calories: 320kcal
- Fat: 15g
- Protein: 10g
- Carbohydrates: 40g