A bright and refreshing pasta dish tossed in a tangy lemon-dill dressing that’s perfect for warm days. This versatile recipe can be served hot as a simple weeknight dinner or chilled as a zesty pasta salad for lunches and picnics.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Effortless prep: whisk the dressing while the pasta cooks—no extra pots or pans required.
Dual-use dish: enjoy it warm for dinner or cold as a make-ahead salad.
Fresh flavors: the combination of lemon and dill delivers a light, herbaceous zing that pairs beautifully with virtually any protein or vegetable.

ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

16 oz dry pasta (any shape; for example, fusilli, penne, or pappardelle)
Zest of one lemon
Juice of one lemon
2 tsp yellow mustard
1 Tbsp honey
5 Tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
4 Tbsp fresh dill, finely chopped, plus extra for garnish
1 cup frozen baby peas

directions

Bring a large pot of water to a rolling boil. Salt generously, then add the pasta and cook according to package instructions.
While the pasta cooks, whisk together the lemon zest, lemon juice, mustard, and honey in a large bowl.
Gradually drizzle in the olive oil while whisking to emulsify the dressing. Stir in the chopped dill and set aside.
In the last 30–60 seconds of pasta cooking, add the frozen peas to the boiling water.
Drain the pasta and peas, then immediately transfer them to the bowl with the dressing. Toss gently to coat evenly.
Garnish with additional dill before serving.

Servings and timing

Servings: 6–8 portions
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 12 minutes
Total time: 22 minutes

Variations

Add vegetables: fold in halved cherry tomatoes, thinly sliced cucumbers, or steamed asparagus for extra color and crunch.
Protein boost: stir in flaked cooked salmon, roasted shrimp, or grilled chicken strips.
Cheesy twist: sprinkle crumbled feta or grated Parmesan over each serving.
Nutty crunch: top with toasted pine nuts or slivered almonds.
Vegan option: substitute honey with maple syrup and ensure the pasta contains no egg.

storage/reheating

To store: transfer leftovers to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
To reheat: warm gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or olive oil to loosen the dressing. Alternatively, enjoy straight from the refrigerator as a cold pasta salad.

FAQs

What type of pasta works best for this recipe?

Any shape that holds dressing works well—fusilli, rotini, penne, or pappardelle are all excellent choices.

Can I make the dressing ahead of time?

Yes. Prepare the dressing up to 24 hours in advance and refrigerate. Whisk briefly before tossing with warm pasta.

How do I prevent the pasta from sticking when it’s chilled?

Rinse the cooked pasta briefly under cool water after draining to remove excess starch, then drain thoroughly before dressing.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

To make it gluten-free, use a certified gluten-free pasta. All other ingredients are naturally gluten-free.

Can I omit the mustard and honey?

You may omit or adjust these to taste, but they help emulsify the dressing and add subtle complexity to the flavor.

How do I keep the peas bright green and crisp?

Add frozen peas to the boiling pasta water for the last minute of cooking, then drain immediately to preserve their texture and color.

What can I serve alongside or on top of this pasta?

Grilled meats, roasted vegetables, or a simple green salad pair beautifully. You can also top with fresh herbs or a dollop of Greek yogurt.

Can I use dried dill instead of fresh?

Fresh dill is strongly recommended for optimal flavor; if necessary, use 1 tsp dried dill but adjust to taste.

How long will leftovers stay fresh?

Properly stored in the refrigerator, this pasta remains fresh for up to 3 days.

Can I freeze this pasta salad?

Freezing is not recommended, as the dressing and peas may become watery upon thawing.

Conclusion

Cold Lemon Dill Pasta is a simple yet vibrant dish that brings together bright citrus, fresh herbs, and tender pasta in one bowl. Whether you’re looking for a speedy weeknight meal or a make-ahead pasta salad, this recipe adapts beautifully to any occasion. Enjoy experimenting with mix-ins and garnishes to make it your own staple for warm-weather dining.