Lemon Basil Pasta Salad

What You’ll Love About This Recipe

This lemon basil pasta salad is a revitalizing and simple dish that’s perfect for any occasion. You’ll love how it combines bright, zesty flavors with a creamy, satisfying texture.

• It’s quick and easy to make, so you can spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying your meal.
• The tangy lemon and fresh basil create a burst of flavor that’s both light and totally delicious.
• It’s super versatile, making it a great side dish for BBQs, potlucks, or even a light lunch on its own.

Recipe

This vibrant Lemon Basil Pasta Salad is a revitalizing and zesty dish perfect for any occasion. It combines al dente pasta with a tangy lemon dressing, fresh basil, and crisp vegetables for a light yet satisfying meal.

Ingredients:

• 12 oz pasta (penne or fusilli work well)
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• Zest and juice of 2 lemons
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Cook the pasta: Boil the pasta in salted water until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool.
2. Prepare the dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon zest, lemon juice, minced garlic, salt, and pepper.
3. Combine ingredients: In a large bowl, toss the cooled pasta with the dressing, cherry tomatoes, Parmesan cheese, and fresh basil.
4. Chill and serve: Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld.

Notes: For added texture, include cucumber slices or toasted pine nuts. Adjust lemon juice and basil to taste.

Time: Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 10 minutes | Total Time: 25 minutes

Serving: 6 servings

Calories: 320 kcal per serving

Cuisine: Italian-inspired

Nutrition

This Lemon Basil Pasta Salad is a rejuvenating and nutritious dish perfect for any occasion. Below is the nutritional breakdown per serving.

What To Serve With It

I love pairing my Lemon Basil Pasta Salad with grilled chicken breasts for a hearty, protein-packed meal. Garlic breadsticks on the side add a savory crunch that perfectly complements the zesty flavors. It’s a simple combination that always feels like a complete, satisfying dinner.

Grilled Chicken Breasts

Pairing grilled chicken breasts with the right sides can turn a simple meal into something special. I love experimenting with grilled chicken marinades, like a zesty lemon-herb mix or a tangy balsamic glaze, to add flavor before cooking. When it comes to chicken cooking methods, I prefer grilling because it locks in juiciness and gives that smoky char I crave. I always make sure to preheat the grill and cook the chicken over medium heat, flipping it just once to keep it tender. Grilled chicken breasts are so versatile, they can elevate any dish, especially a fresh lemon basil pasta salad.

Garlic Bread Sticks

Though garlic bread sticks are delicious on their own, they’re even better when served alongside the right dishes. I love how their rich garlic flavor complements lighter meals, like a lemon basil pasta salad, adding a satisfying crunch. Bread variations, like cheesy or herb-infused sticks, can make the pairing even more exciting. I often brush mine with olive oil and sprinkle fresh parsley for extra flair. They’re perfect for soaking up any leftover dressing or sauce, too. Trust me, once you try this combo, it’ll become a go-to for dinners or potlucks. It’s simple, tasty, and always a crowd-pleaser!