Zesty Lemon Basil Pasta Salad for Perfect Summer Picnics

Lemon Basil Pasta Salad is the kind of dish that makes you want to dance around your kitchen while humming a tune. Picture fresh, vibrant basil mingling with the zesty brightness of lemon, all wrapped up in tender pasta. The aroma wafts through your home, creating an atmosphere so inviting that even your cat might consider joining your dinner party.

This delightful dish isn’t just a pretty face; it’s perfect for summer picnics or cozy family dinners. Imagine serving it as a side at a barbecue, and hearing compliments that make you feel like a culinary rock star. The explosion of flavors will leave taste buds tingling and guests clamoring for seconds—or even thirds!

Sharing this dish with friends at our last garden party led to enthusiastic cheers and satisfied smiles all around.

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Bowtie Pasta: I love using bowtie pasta for its fun shape, but any pasta will do if you’re feeling adventurous.

• Fresh Basil Leaves: Choose vibrant green leaves; they add that aromatic kick we all crave in summer salads.

• Cherry Tomatoes: These little gems provide sweetness and a burst of color; opt for ripe ones for the best flavor.

• Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed is best—bottled won’t give you that lively zing we want in this salad.

• Olive Oil: Use high-quality extra virgin olive oil for its rich flavor; it brings everything together beautifully.

• Parmesan Cheese: Grated or shaved, it adds savory depth; just be careful not to overdo it unless you’re a cheese lover like me!

• Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings; adjust them according to taste and preference.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

How to Make Lemon Basil Pasta Salad

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

Prepare the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together fresh lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper until well combined. This dressing is where all that zesty goodness comes from!

Toss in the Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked pasta with cherry tomatoes and torn basil leaves. Drizzle the dressing over everything and toss gently until well coated.

Add Parmesan Cheese: Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over the salad, giving it an extra layer of flavor. Toss again lightly so every bite gets cheesy goodness.

Chill and Serve!: Allow the salad to chill in the fridge for about 30 minutes before serving. This step helps meld those delightful flavors together—trust me; patience pays off!

This Lemon Basil Pasta Salad is not only a feast for your taste buds but also easy on the eyes! Enjoy every colorful bite at your next gathering or as a refreshing weekday lunch.

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by cooking the pasta al dente, then combine it with the dressing and ingredients while still warm. This helps the flavors meld beautifully.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap in your favorite veggies or add grilled chicken for extra protein. A sprinkle of feta cheese can also elevate the taste.

Storing & Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Enjoy cold or let it sit at room temperature before serving.

Creating my first lemon basil pasta salad was a revelation. Friends raved about it at our summer picnic, and I felt like a culinary rock star!

FAQ

What type of pasta works best for lemon basil pasta salad?

Use short pasta shapes like fusilli or penne for better flavor absorption.

Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes, prepare it a few hours in advance for optimal flavor melding.

How can I adjust the acidity of my salad?

Add more olive oil if you want to tone down the lemon’s acidity slightly.

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Lemon Basil Pasta Salad

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• Author: Jennifer
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4

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Description

Lemon Basil Pasta Salad is a vibrant, refreshing dish bursting with the flavors of fresh basil and zesty lemon. Perfect for summer picnics or family dinners, this salad combines tender bowtie pasta with cherry tomatoes and a light lemon dressing. Quick to prepare, it’s not only visually appealing but also a crowd-pleaser that can easily be customized with seasonal vegetables or proteins. Enjoy this delightful dish chilled or at room temperature for an unforgettable taste experience.

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Ingredients

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• 8 oz bowtie pasta
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 cup fresh basil leaves, torn
• 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
• 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt and pepper to taste

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Instructions

1. Cook the pasta in salted boiling water until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Drain and rinse under cold water.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
3. In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, cherry tomatoes, and torn basil leaves. Pour the dressing over and toss gently.
4. Sprinkle Parmesan cheese on top and toss lightly to combine.
5. Chill in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes before serving.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Category: Salad
• Method: Boiling
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (150g)
• Calories: 350
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 250mg
• Fat: 18g
• Saturated Fat: 4g
• Unsaturated Fat: 12g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 37g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 10g
• Cholesterol: 15mg