This zesty Lemon Artichoke Pasta Salad is a light, Mediterranean-inspired dish made with rigatoni, arugula, marinated artichoke hearts, fresh lemon, and Parmesan. Tossed in a bright homemade lemon-garlic dressing, it’s the perfect pasta salad for summer picnics, meal prep, or healthy lunch ideas. Packed with flavour and ready in minutes, it’s a fresh and easy vegetarian side dish everyone will love.
In a small bowl or jar, whisk together the lemon zest, lemon juice, olive oil, garlic, shallots, salt, pepper, and ¼ cup Parmesan until well combined.
In a large mixing bowl, add the cooked rigatoni, diced Sardo artichoke hearts, and arugula.
Pour the dressing over the pasta salad. Toss gently until everything is evenly coated.
Sprinkle with the remaining ½ cup grated Parmesan just before serving. Enjoy chilled or at room temperature!