Basil Lemon Pasta Salad

Basil Lemon Pasta Salad is a refreshing dish that shines in the spring and summer months. This light and zesty pasta salad is perfect for picnics, barbecues, or any gathering where you want to impress your guests without spending hours in the kitchen. With its vibrant flavors and simple preparation, this salad stands out as a delightful alternative to heavier pasta dishes.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Bright Flavors: The combination of fresh basil and zesty lemon creates a lively taste that elevates this pasta salad.
• Quick to Prepare: Ready in just 17 minutes, you can whip this up in no time for any occasion.
• Versatile Dish: Perfect as a side or main dish, this Basil Lemon Pasta Salad suits various meals from casual gatherings to elegant dinners.
• Healthy Option: With wholesome ingredients like olive oil and fresh herbs, it’s a nutritious choice that doesn’t compromise on flavor.
• Make Ahead: This salad tastes even better after chilling, making it an ideal make-ahead dish for busy days.

Tools and Preparation

To create your delicious Basil Lemon Pasta Salad, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools. These help streamline the process and ensure your salad turns out perfectly.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Mixing bowl
• Jar with lid (for dressing)
• Colander

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Essential for boiling pasta evenly, ensuring it cooks properly for the best texture.
• Mixing bowl: A spacious bowl allows you to toss all ingredients together without making a mess.
• Jar with lid: Perfect for shaking up the dressing quickly, ensuring all ingredients are well combined.
• Colander: Ideal for draining pasta and keeping it al dente while rinsing with cold water.

Ingredients

Here’s what you will need to make your Basil Lemon Pasta Salad:

For the Pasta Salad

• 1 pound pasta (shown with campanelle)
• ¼ cup white apple vinegar
• ¼ cup extra virgin olive oil
• 3 tablespoons lemon juice
• 8 cracks black pepper (or to taste)
• ⅓ cup pine nuts
• ½ cup parmesan (shavings)
• ¼ cup fresh basil (sliced thin)

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

How to Make Basil Lemon Pasta Salad

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the pasta until al dente. Once done, drain it and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process.

Step 2: Prepare the Dressing

While the pasta cools, combine white apple vinegar, extra virgin olive oil, and lemon juice in a jar. Secure the lid tightly and shake until well blended.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, toss together the cooked pasta with the dressing. Add pine nuts, freshly cracked pepper, sliced basil, and parmesan shavings. Mix gently until everything is evenly coated.

Step 4: Chill Before Serving

Cover the salad and refrigerate it for at least two hours before serving. This allows all flavors to meld beautifully.

Now you’re ready to enjoy a delightful Basil Lemon Pasta Salad that’s perfect for any occasion!

How to Serve Basil Lemon Pasta Salad

Basil Lemon Pasta Salad is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. It’s perfect for gatherings, picnics, or as a refreshing side at dinner. Here are some serving suggestions to enhance your meal experience.

As a Light Lunch

• Serve chilled alongside grilled chicken or fish for a balanced meal.
• Pair with crusty bread to soak up any remaining dressing.

At Gatherings and Picnics

• Present in a large bowl, garnished with extra basil leaves for a fresh look.
• Use individual cups for easy serving and portion control at potlucks.

As a Side Dish

• Complement barbecued meats with this light salad to balance richer flavors.
• Serve alongside roasted vegetables for a colorful plate.

For Meal Prep

• Pack in airtight containers for quick grab-and-go lunches throughout the week.
• Keep the dressing separate until ready to serve to maintain freshness.

How to Perfect Basil Lemon Pasta Salad

Perfecting your Basil Lemon Pasta Salad can elevate its taste and presentation. Follow these tips to make it truly delightful.

• Choose the right pasta: Select pasta shapes that hold onto the dressing well, like campanelle or fusilli.
• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh basil and quality olive oil significantly enhance flavor.
• Chill before serving: Refrigerate the salad for at least 2 hours to let flavors meld together.
• Adjust seasoning: Taste before serving and add more lemon juice or pepper if needed.

Best Side Dishes for Basil Lemon Pasta Salad

Basil Lemon Pasta Salad pairs wonderfully with various side dishes. Here are some ideas that complement its bright flavors:

1. Grilled Vegetables – Charred zucchini, bell peppers, and asparagus add a smoky touch.
2. Caprese Skewers – Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze make a perfect finger food.
3. Garlic Bread – Crispy garlic bread is ideal for soaking up extra dressing from the salad.
4. Crispy Chicken Tenders – Juicy chicken tenders provide a satisfying crunch alongside the salad’s freshness.
5. Fruit Salad – A medley of seasonal fruits offers sweetness and balances the savory pasta salad.
6. Stuffed Peppers – Colorful bell peppers filled with quinoa or rice create an eye-catching plate.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making a Basil Lemon Pasta Salad can be simple, but a few common mistakes can affect the final dish. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:

• Skipping the Rinse: Not rinsing the pasta after cooking can lead to clumping. Always rinse your pasta with cold water to stop the cooking process and keep it from sticking together.

• Wrong Ratio of Ingredients: Using too much or too little dressing can overwhelm or underwhelm the salad. Stick to the provided measurements for a balanced flavor.

• Not Letting It Chill: Serving the salad immediately may result in a bland taste. Allowing it to chill for at least 2 hours lets the flavors meld together beautifully.

• Ignoring Freshness: Using wilted basil or stale nuts can ruin your salad’s taste. Always use fresh ingredients for the best flavor and texture.

• Overcooking the Pasta: Cooking pasta beyond al dente makes it mushy. Be attentive to cooking times for perfect texture.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store Basil Lemon Pasta Salad in an airtight container.
• It will last up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
• Make sure to keep it chilled until serving time.

Freezing Basil Lemon Pasta Salad

• Freezing is not recommended as it affects texture and freshness.
• If you must freeze, store in a freezer-safe container and consume within 1 month.
• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before use.

Reheating Basil Lemon Pasta Salad

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and place the salad in an oven-safe dish, covering it with foil. Heat for about 10-15 minutes.

• Microwave: Place a portion of the salad in a microwave-safe bowl and cover loosely. Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through.

• Stovetop: In a skillet over low heat, warm the salad gently, stirring frequently until heated through. This helps maintain texture without making it mushy.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I make Basil Lemon Pasta Salad gluten-free?

You can easily make this recipe gluten-free by using gluten-free pasta alternatives available at most grocery stores. The rest of the ingredients remain unchanged.

Can I add protein to my Basil Lemon Pasta Salad?

Absolutely! Grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas would be excellent additions that enhance both flavor and nutrition.

What other herbs work well in this Lemon Pasta Salad?

While basil is key, you can add parsley or mint for extra freshness. Experimenting with different herbs can elevate your dish further!

How long will leftover Basil Lemon Pasta Salad last?

When stored properly in an airtight container in the fridge, leftovers should be consumed within 3 days for optimal freshness and flavor.

Final Thoughts

This Basil Lemon Pasta Salad is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. It’s perfect as a side dish at gatherings or as a light meal on its own. Feel free to customize it with your favorite vegetables or proteins to suit your taste preferences! Try this refreshing recipe today and enjoy its bright flavors!

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Basil Lemon Pasta Salad

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• Author: Jennifer
• Total Time: 17 minutes
• Yield: Serves 6

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Description

Basil Lemon Pasta Salad is the perfect spring and summer dish, bursting with vibrant flavors that are sure to impress at any gathering. This refreshing salad combines the aromatic essence of fresh basil with the zesty brightness of lemon, creating a deliciously light meal that’s both quick to prepare and versatile. In just 17 minutes, you can whip up this delightful pasta salad, making it an ideal option for picnics, barbecues, or a simple weeknight dinner. With wholesome ingredients like olive oil and parmesan, it’s a nutritious choice that doesn’t skimp on flavor—plus, it tastes even better after chilling in the fridge!

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 pound pasta (campanelle recommended)
• ¼ cup white apple vinegar
• ¼ cup extra virgin olive oil
• 3 tablespoons lemon juice
• ⅓ cup pine nuts
• ½ cup parmesan shavings
• ¼ cup fresh basil (sliced thin)

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Instructions

1. Cook pasta in salted boiling water until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water.
2. In a jar, combine white apple vinegar, olive oil, and lemon juice. Shake well.
3. In a mixing bowl, combine cooked pasta with dressing, pine nuts, black pepper, sliced basil, and parmesan. Toss gently.
4. Cover and refrigerate for at least two hours before serving.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 7 minutes
• Category: Salad
• Method: Boiling/Tossing
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (about 150g)
• Calories: 360
• Sugar: 1g
• Sodium: 250mg
• Fat: 24g
• Saturated Fat: 4g
• Unsaturated Fat: 20g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 10g
• Cholesterol: 10mg