Go Back
+ servings
Lemon Basil Parmesan Pasta Salad

Lemon Basil Parmesan Pasta Salad That's Fresh and Fun to Make

This Lemon Basil Parmesan Pasta Salad is a refreshing vegetarian dish that bursts with zesty flavors, perfect for warm gatherings.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Salad
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 350

Ingredients
  

For the Salad
  • 1 lb Pasta (bowtie or small shape) Use a hearty base.
  • 2 handfuls Arugula Peppery green; substitute with spinach if preferred.
  • 1/4 cup Fresh Basil (sliced) Fresh is preferred, but dried can be used.
  • 1/3 cup Parmesan Cheese (grated) Freshly grated for best flavor.
  • 1/3 cup Pine Nuts Toast for enhanced flavor.
For the Vinaigrette
  • 1-2 cloves Garlic (grated) Fresh is best.
  • 1/2 tsp Kosher Salt Essential for seasoning.
  • 1/4 tsp Black Pepper Freshly ground for better taste.
  • 1 tsp Lemon Zest Adds brightness.
  • 2 tbsp Lemon Juice (freshly squeezed) Essential for vinaigrette.
  • 2 tbsp White Balsamic Vinegar Can substitute with apple cider vinegar.
  • 1/2 tsp Dijon Mustard Adds creaminess.
  • 3 tbsp Extra Virgin Olive Oil Use high-quality oil.

Equipment

  • Large pot
  • small skillet
  • mixing bowl
  • glass jar

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions for Lemon Basil Parmesan Pasta Salad
  1. In a glass jar, combine grated garlic, kosher salt, black pepper, lemon zest, lemon juice, white balsamic vinegar, Dijon mustard, and olive oil. Shake well and set aside.
  2. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil, add pasta, and cook for 8-10 minutes until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water.
  3. Toast pine nuts in a skillet over medium heat for 5-6 minutes until golden brown. Set aside to cool.
  4. In a large mixing bowl, combine cooled pasta, arugula, pine nuts, parmesan, and basil. Toss gently to mix.
  5. Pour the vinaigrette over the salad and toss to coat. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.
  6. Transfer salad to a serving bowl and garnish with basil leaves and lemon slices.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 10gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 2gPolyunsaturated Fat: 3gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 5mgSodium: 400mgPotassium: 300mgFiber: 4gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 15mgCalcium: 150mgIron: 1.5mg

Notes

Add fresh basil and grated Parmesan right before serving for extra freshness and flavor.

Tried this recipe?

Let us know how it was!