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Lemon Basil Pasta Salad

Lemon Basil Pasta Salad for Refreshing Summer Eats

This Lemon Basil Pasta Salad is a refreshing summer dish featuring a vibrant mix of flavors from lemon, basil, and fresh ingredients.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Cooling Time 5 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Salads
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 350

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta
  • 8 oz Bowtie Pasta Can substitute with any small pasta shape like rotini or penne.
For the Salad
  • 4 cups Baby Arugula Can swap with spinach or mixed greens.
  • 1/2 cup Toasted Pine Nuts Keep a close eye while toasting to prevent burning.
  • 1/2 cup Parmesan Cheese Use feta for a tangier twist or omit for dairy-free.
  • 1 cup Fresh Basil Fresh herbs like parsley or mint can be substitutes.
For the Vinaigrette
  • 1/4 cup Lemon Juice & Zest Essential for elevating the overall taste.
  • 2 tbsp White Balsamic Vinegar Champagne or apple cider vinegar work as alternatives.
  • 1 tbsp Dijon Mustard Helps emulsify the vinaigrette.
  • 1/2 cup Extra Virgin Olive Oil Contributes smooth richness to the dressing.
  • 1 clove Garlic Fresh is recommended for the best flavor.
  • to taste Salt & Black Pepper Adjust to your taste preference.

Equipment

  • Large pot
  • Skillet
  • jar
  • Mixing bowl

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. In a sturdy jar, combine freshly grated garlic, a pinch of salt, and black pepper. Then add the lemon zest and juice, white balsamic vinegar, Dijon mustard, and extra virgin olive oil. Seal the jar tightly and shake vigorously for about 30 seconds until well blended and emulsified.
  2. Bring a large pot of water to a rolling boil with a generous amount of salt. Add the bowtie pasta and cook according to package instructions for about 8-10 minutes until al dente.
  3. In a dry skillet over medium heat, toast the pine nuts for about 5-6 minutes, stirring frequently, until golden brown.
  4. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled bowtie pasta, fresh baby arugula, toasted pine nuts, grated parmesan cheese, and torn fresh basil leaves. Toss gently to distribute evenly.
  5. Pour the vinaigrette over the pasta salad mixture and toss until all components are evenly coated.
  6. Taste and adjust the seasoning with additional salt and black pepper as desired. Garnish with extra grated parmesan, fresh basil leaves, and lemon slices.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 40gProtein: 10gFat: 18gSaturated Fat: 3gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 14gCholesterol: 10mgSodium: 200mgPotassium: 300mgFiber: 3gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 15mgCalcium: 150mgIron: 2mg

Notes

For optimal freshness, keep arugula and vinaigrette separate until serving.

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