Lemon Basil Parmesan Pasta Salad

Lemon Basil Parmesan Pasta Salad is a delightful dish that combines vibrant flavors and fresh ingredients, making it an ideal choice for spring or summer gatherings. This refreshing salad is not only easy to prepare but also versatile enough for picnics, potlucks, or simple weeknight dinners. With its tangy lemon dressing, peppery arugula, and the rich flavor of parmesan cheese, this pasta salad will surely impress your family and friends.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: Ready in just 45 minutes, this recipe is perfect for those busy days when you need something delicious without the hassle.
• Fresh Ingredients: The combination of basil, lemon, and arugula brings a burst of flavor that brightens any meal.
• Versatile Dish: Serve it as a side or make it a main dish by adding grilled chicken or shrimp.
• Healthy Choice: Packed with nutrients from fresh vegetables and whole grains, this salad is both satisfying and nutritious.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: This pasta salad can be made in advance, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, having the right tools on hand will make your experience smoother. Here are some essential kitchen tools you’ll need for this recipe.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Colander
• Mixing bowl
• Whisk
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Essential for boiling pasta evenly without overcrowding.
• Colander: Helps drain excess water from the cooked pasta effectively.
• Mixing bowl: Perfect for combining all ingredients and ensuring every bite is packed with flavor.
• Whisk: Ideal for creating a smooth lemon vinaigrette that coats the pasta beautifully.

Ingredients

Lemon Basil Parmesan Pasta Salad is a super simple yet flavorful dish perfect for spring or summer! Cooked pasta, peppery arugula, fresh basil, grated parmesan cheese and toasted pine nuts are tossed with simple, bright and lemony vinaigrette. Yields about 9 cups..

For the Vinaigrette

• 1 to 2 cloves garlic (grated (2 cloves if small))
• 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• 1 teaspoon lemon zest
• 2 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
• 2 tablespoons white balsamic vinegar
• 1/2 teaspoon dijon mustard
• 3 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil

For the Salad

• 1 pound bowtie pasta (or other small pasta of choice)
• fine salt (for seasoning pasta water)
• 1/3 cup pine nuts
• 2 handfuls baby arugula (I eyeball this)
• 1/3 cup parmesan cheese (freshly grated, plus more for serving)
• 1/4 cup thinly sliced fresh basil leaves (plus more for serving (optional))
• kosher salt (to taste)
• freshly ground black pepper (to taste)

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

How to Make Lemon Basil Parmesan Pasta Salad

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the bowtie pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain in a colander and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process.

Step 2: Toast the Pine Nuts

In a dry skillet over medium heat, toast the pine nuts until golden brown. Stir frequently to prevent burning. Remove from heat once toasted.

Step 3: Prepare the Vinaigrette

In a mixing bowl, combine grated garlic, kosher salt, black pepper, lemon zest, lemon juice, white balsamic vinegar, dijon mustard, and olive oil. Whisk until well combined.

Step 4: Combine Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, add cooked pasta, toasted pine nuts, baby arugula, grated parmesan cheese, and sliced basil leaves. Pour the vinaigrette over the salad.

Step 5: Toss Thoroughly

Gently toss all ingredients together until evenly coated with dressing. Season with additional kosher salt and black pepper to taste.

Step 6: Serve

Transfer to a serving platter or individual bowls. Garnish with extra parmesan cheese and fresh parsley if desired. Enjoy your Lemon Basil Parmesan Pasta Salad!

How to Serve Lemon Basil Parmesan Pasta Salad

Lemon Basil Parmesan Pasta Salad is versatile and can be served in various ways. Whether it’s a picnic, potluck, or a simple weeknight dinner, these serving suggestions will elevate your dish.

As a Main Dish

• Pair with grilled chicken for a hearty meal. The protein complements the fresh flavors of the salad.
• Enjoy it with crusty bread as a filling lunch option. The bread absorbs the vinaigrette beautifully.

As a Side Dish

• Serve alongside barbecued meats for a refreshing contrast. The lemony dressing enhances grilled flavors.
• Accompany it with seafood dishes like grilled shrimp. The lightness of the pasta salad balances rich seafood.

At a Potluck

• Present it in a large bowl for easy serving. Make sure to bring extra dressing for guests who love more flavor.
• Garnish with additional basil and parmesan on top for an appealing look that draws people in.

For Meal Prep

• Store in individual containers for quick lunches throughout the week. It stays fresh and tasty in the fridge.
• Add extra greens just before serving to keep everything crisp and vibrant.

How to Perfect Lemon Basil Parmesan Pasta Salad

To make your Lemon Basil Parmesan Pasta Salad even better, consider these helpful tips.

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh basil and arugula enhance the flavor of your salad significantly.
• Toast pine nuts: Toasting adds depth and crunch; simply heat them in a pan until golden brown.
• Adjust acidity: Taste your vinaigrette and adjust lemon juice or vinegar to suit your preference for tanginess.
• Let it rest: Allow the salad to sit for at least 30 minutes before serving; this helps flavors meld together.
• Add protein: Consider adding chickpeas or diced chicken for extra nutrition and heartiness.
• Experiment with cheese: Try different types of cheese like feta or goat cheese for unique flavor variations.

Best Side Dishes for Lemon Basil Parmesan Pasta Salad

Lemon Basil Parmesan Pasta Salad pairs wonderfully with various side dishes, making it suitable for any occasion. Here are some great options to consider.

1. Grilled Vegetables: Charred seasonal veggies add smokiness that complements the freshness of the pasta salad.
2. Caprese Skewers: Mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil on skewers provide a delightful bite-sized treat.
3. Garlic Bread: Crunchy garlic bread is perfect for scooping up leftover dressing from your plate.
4. Fruit Salad: A medley of seasonal fruits offers sweetness that balances the savory pasta salad.
5. Crispy Potato Wedges: Seasoned wedges add crunch and heartiness that pair well with lighter salads.
6. Caesar Salad: This classic salad introduces creamy textures that enhance your meal’s overall satisfaction.
7. Stuffed Peppers: Colorful peppers filled with quinoa or rice create an appealing visual alongside your pasta salad.
8. Coleslaw: A tangy slaw provides a nice crunch and acidity that works well with the pasta’s flavors.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Lemon Basil Parmesan Pasta Salad, it’s easy to overlook a few key details that can affect the flavor and texture of your dish.

• Using overcooked pasta: Overcooked pasta can become mushy. Always cook the pasta al dente for the best texture in your salad.
• Skipping the seasoning: Failing to season your pasta water or salad can lead to bland flavors. Always add salt to the boiling water and taste your salad before serving.
• Not letting it chill: Serving immediately may not allow flavors to meld. Allow your pasta salad to chill in the fridge for at least 30 minutes before serving.
• Ignoring freshness: Using wilted basil or old ingredients can ruin your dish. Always opt for fresh basil and quality ingredients for the best results.
• Missing out on customization: Sticking strictly to the recipe can be limiting. Feel free to add other veggies or proteins to make this salad your own.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Keep any extra lemon vinaigrette separate until ready to serve for optimal freshness.

Freezing Lemon Basil Parmesan Pasta Salad

• This salad is best enjoyed fresh, but if you must freeze it, store in a freezer-safe container.
• It can last up to 2 months in the freezer, but expect a change in texture upon thawing.

Reheating Lemon Basil Parmesan Pasta Salad

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C), place salad in an oven-safe dish covered with foil, and heat for about 15-20 minutes.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat on medium power in 1-minute intervals until warmed through.
• Stovetop: Heat gently in a skillet over low heat, stirring often until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use different pasta types for Lemon Basil Parmesan Pasta Salad?

Yes! You can substitute bowtie pasta with any small pasta shape you prefer, such as rotini or penne.

How can I customize my Lemon Basil Parmesan Pasta Salad?

Feel free to add extra veggies like cherry tomatoes or bell peppers, or proteins like grilled chicken or chickpeas, to enhance your salad.

Is Lemon Basil Parmesan Pasta Salad gluten-free?

To make this dish gluten-free, use gluten-free pasta. The rest of the ingredients are naturally gluten-free.

What is the best way to serve Lemon Basil Parmesan Pasta Salad?

Serve it chilled as a side dish at BBQs or picnics. It also works well as a light main course!

Final Thoughts

Lemon Basil Parmesan Pasta Salad is a delightful blend of flavors that perfectly embodies spring and summer vibes. With its zesty vinaigrette and fresh ingredients, this dish is versatile enough for any occasion. Don’t hesitate to customize it with your favorite additions! Try this recipe today and enjoy a refreshing meal that’s sure to impress.

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Lemon Basil Parmesan Pasta Salad

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• Author: Alexia
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: Serves approximately 6 people

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Description

Lemon Basil Parmesan Pasta Salad is a vibrant and refreshing dish that’s perfect for warm-weather gatherings. This charming salad combines al dente pasta with peppery arugula, fragrant basil, and rich parmesan cheese, all tossed in a zesty lemon vinaigrette. It’s not only quick to prepare—taking just 45 minutes—but also incredibly versatile. Enjoy it as a delightful side at picnics or BBQs, or elevate it to a main course by adding grilled chicken or shrimp. Packed with fresh ingredients and nutrients, this pasta salad is both satisfying and healthy. Make it ahead of time to let the flavors meld beautifully, ensuring your guests will be asking for seconds!

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Ingredients

• Bowtie pasta
• Baby arugula
• Fresh basil
• Grated parmesan cheese
• Toasted pine nuts
• Lemon juice and zest
• White balsamic vinegar

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Instructions

1. Cook bowtie pasta in salted boiling water until al dente; drain and rinse under cold water.
2. In a dry skillet, toast pine nuts over medium heat until golden brown.
3. Whisk together garlic, salt, pepper, lemon zest, lemon juice, vinegar, mustard, and olive oil in a mixing bowl to create the vinaigrette.
4. In a large bowl, combine cooked pasta, toasted pine nuts, arugula, parmesan cheese, and basil leaves. Pour vinaigrette over the mixture.
5. Toss well to coat all ingredients evenly; season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve chilled or at room temperature; garnish with extra parmesan and parsley if desired.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Salad
• Method: Mixing
• Cuisine: Mediterranean

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (150g)
• Calories: 360
• Sugar: 2g
• Sodium: 290mg
• Fat: 20g
• Saturated Fat: 3g
• Unsaturated Fat: 15g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 34g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 11g
• Cholesterol: 8mg