This Basil Lemon Pasta Salad is a refreshing mix of pasta, zesty lemon, and fragrant basil. It’s perfect for summer picnics or a quick lunch!
Honestly, every bite feels like a mini vacation. I love tossing this salad together; it’s so easy, even I can’t mess it up! 🍋🍝
You can enjoy it cold or at room temperature, which makes it super convenient for a busy day. Trust me, you’ll want to make this one again and again!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: Fusilli or rotini is great in this recipe as they hold the dressing well. If you’re in a pinch, use any short pasta like penne or farfalle. Just make sure it’s cooked al dente for the best texture!
Olive Oil: Extra virgin olive oil adds a rich flavor. If you want a lighter option, avocado oil works well too. You could even try a flavored oil, like lemon-infused, to enhance the dish!
Lemon Juice & Zest: Fresh lemon juice is key for brightness. Bottled lemon juice can work in a pinch, but it won’t match the fresh flavor. If you don’t have lemons, consider using a splash of vinegar for acidity.
Basil: Fresh basil is what makes this salad shine! If basil isn’t available, try using fresh parsley or mint for a different flavor. Dried herbs are an option, but will lack the vibrant taste of fresh.
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan gives a nice salty kick. If you prefer a dairy-free option, nutritional yeast adds a cheesy flavor. Pecorino Romano is another tasty substitute if you want something sharper.
How Can I Cook Perfect Pasta for This Salad?
Cooking pasta might seem simple, but a few tips can elevate your dish. The goal is al dente, meaning it should have a slight bite to it. Follow these steps:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil—this helps flavor the pasta.
- Add the pasta and cook according to the package directions, usually around 8-10 minutes.
- Start tasting a minute or two before the suggested time. Once it’s just firm, drain it!
- Rinse the pasta under cold water to stop the cooking process. This keeps it from getting mushy.
This technique ensures your pasta salad stays fresh and delicious!
How to Make Basil Lemon Pasta Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Pasta and Dressing:
- 8 oz pasta (fusilli or rotini)
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
- Zest of 1 lemon
- Salt and pepper to taste
Mix-ins and Garnishes:
- 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Additional basil leaves for garnish
- Optional: cherry tomatoes, halved (for added color and flavor)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This refreshing Basil Lemon Pasta Salad takes about 15 minutes to prepare. You’ll spend time cooking the pasta and mixing the ingredients, plus it’s best served chilled or at room temperature, making it perfect for a quick meal or side dish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by boiling a pot of water. Add the pasta and cook it according to the package instructions until it’s al dente (still slightly firm). Once done, drain the pasta and rinse it under cold water to cool it down quickly. This helps stop the cooking process and prevents it from getting mushy.
2. Make the Dressing:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the olive oil, fresh lemon juice, lemon zest, salt, and pepper. Use a whisk to mix everything together until it’s nice and well blended. This dressing is what gives the pasta its zesty flavor!
3. Combine Pasta and Dressing:
Now that your pasta is cool, add it to the bowl with the dressing. Toss gently to coat the pasta evenly so every bite has that delicious lemony flavor!
4. Add the Mix-ins:
Carefully fold in the chopped basil and grated Parmesan cheese. If you’re adding cherry tomatoes, toss them in now as well for a pop of color and extra flavor. Mix just enough to combine the ingredients without breaking the pasta.
5. Final Touches:
Give it a taste! You might want to add a pinch more salt, pepper, or a splash of lemon juice for extra zing. Adjust to your liking.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Your Basil Lemon Pasta Salad is ready to go! You can serve it chilled, or at room temperature, garnished with additional basil leaves and some extra Parmesan cheese on top if you like. Enjoy this refreshing dish!
Can I Use Different Types of Pasta for This Recipe?
Absolutely! While fusilli or rotini work great, feel free to use any pasta shape you love, such as penne, farfalle, or even whole wheat pasta. Just make sure to cook it until al dente for the best texture!
How Can I Make This Salad Vegan?
To make this pasta salad vegan, you can simply omit the grated Parmesan cheese or substitute it with a plant-based cheese alternative. Nutritional yeast is also a great option to add a cheesy flavor without the dairy!
Can I Make This Salad Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare this salad a few hours or even a day ahead! Just store it in an airtight container in the fridge. The flavors will meld beautifully, but be sure to give it a quick toss before serving to refresh it.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The pasta salad can be enjoyed cold or at room temperature, but it’s best to eat it within a few days for optimal freshness.
