Lemon Basil Pasta Salad

This Lemon Basil Pasta Salad is a delightful dish that brings together the zesty flavors of lemon and fresh basil, perfectly complemented by vibrant vegetables. It’s not just a salad; it’s a colorful experience that works well for picnics, potlucks, or a light lunch. With its bright taste and wholesome ingredients, this pasta salad will make any occasion feel special.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Fresh Flavors: The combination of lemon and basil creates a refreshing taste.
• Quick Preparation: This salad can be whipped up in just 40 minutes, making it perfect for busy days.
• Versatile Dish: Serve it as a side or main dish; it fits any meal occasion.
• Healthy Ingredients: Packed with veggies and plant-based goodness, it’s nutritious and satisfying.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Prepare it ahead of time and let the flavors meld in the fridge for even better taste.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the recipe, gather your essential tools to ensure smooth preparation.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large mixing bowl
• Skillet
• Pot for boiling pasta
• Blender or food processor
• Knife and cutting board
• Clean towel

Importance of Each Tool

• Blender or food processor: These tools make creating the dressing effortless, allowing for a smooth blend of ingredients.
• Large mixing bowl: Ideal for combining all your ingredients without any mess.
• Skillet: Perfect for sautéing vegetables, enhancing their flavors through caramelization.

Ingredients

This lemon basil pasta salad is bright, herby and tossed with wholesome veggies. A tasty and lighter take on traditional pasta salads.

For the Salad Base

• 1 large zucchini, cut into 3/4 inch half moons
• 8 oz of orecchiette pasta
• 2-3 cups spinach, roughly chopped
• 1 jar (6.5 oz) marinated artichoke hearts, diced

For the Dressing

• 3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
• 1/2 medium red onion, diced
• 1 medium lemon, fully zested and cut in half
• 1/4 cup fresh basil, stems removed
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, stems removed
• 1-2 cloves of garlic, grated (to taste)
• 3 tbsp pepitas or sunflower seeds
• 1/4 cup plain unsweetened plant-based yogurt
• 1 tsp yellow miso paste
• Kosher salt to taste

How to Make Lemon Basil Pasta Salad

Step 1: Prepare the Zucchini

Place your zucchini pieces on a clean towel and sprinkle them with a pinch of salt. Allow the zucchini to sit for 5-10 minutes to draw out excess water then pat dry.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta

Bring a pot of water to a boil and add a generous amount of salt. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and immediately rinse with cold water. Add the cold pasta to a large mixing bowl with the spinach and artichoke hearts.

Step 3: Sauté the Onions

Place a large skillet over medium heat with 1 tbsp of oil. Once hot, add the onions with a pinch of salt and sauté until softened. Transfer the cooked onions to the mixing bowl.

Step 4: Caramelize Zucchini and Lemon

Add the lemon halves and zucchini to opposite sides of the pan cut side down. Cook the zucchini undisturbed for about 3 minutes or until it begins to caramelize, then flip and repeat. Cook the lemon undisturbed until its bottoms have caramelized, about 5-6 minutes. Once cooked, remove from heat and add the zucchini to the mixing bowl.

Step 5: Blend the Dressing

To a blender cup, add the basil, parsley, lemon zest, garlic, pepitas, yogurt, miso paste, remaining oil, juice from cooked lemon halves, and a pinch of salt. Blend until smooth. Taste and adjust salt as needed.

Step 6: Combine Ingredients

Pour half of the dressing over the pasta mixture and mix well to combine. Add more dressing if desired or save any extra dressing for serving later.

Enjoy your delicious Lemon Basil Pasta Salad! It’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser at any gathering.

How to Serve Lemon Basil Pasta Salad

Lemon basil pasta salad is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether it’s for a light lunch, a picnic, or as a side for dinner, this salad is sure to impress.

As a Main Dish

• Serve it chilled on its own as a refreshing main course.
• Add grilled chicken or turkey for extra protein and heartiness.

As a Side Dish

• Pair it with grilled vegetables to complement the fresh flavors.
• Serve alongside roasted chicken or beef to balance the meal.

For Meal Prep

• Pack it in individual containers for easy grab-and-go lunches throughout the week.
• Store in the fridge and enjoy it cold or at room temperature for optimal flavor.

At Gatherings

• Present it in a large bowl at potlucks or BBQs, garnished with extra basil.
• Offer it as a colorful addition to any buffet-style meal, enticing guests with its vibrant colors.

How to Perfect Lemon Basil Pasta Salad

To ensure your lemon basil pasta salad is always delicious, follow these helpful tips.

• Choose fresh ingredients: Fresh veggies and herbs elevate the taste of your pasta salad significantly.
• Adjust seasoning: Taste and season your dressing as needed before mixing to ensure balanced flavors.
• Chill before serving: Allow the salad to sit in the fridge for at least 30 minutes; this enhances the flavors as they meld together.
• Use al dente pasta: Cook your orecchiette just right so it maintains its texture even after being mixed with dressing.
• Experiment with add-ins: Feel free to include other veggies like bell peppers or cucumbers for added crunch and color.
• Store properly: Keep leftovers in an airtight container to maintain freshness, consuming within 3 days.

Best Side Dishes for Lemon Basil Pasta Salad

Lemon basil pasta salad pairs well with many side dishes that enhance its lightness. Consider these options:

1. Grilled Vegetables – A mix of seasonal veggies like zucchini, bell peppers, and asparagus adds a smoky flavor.
2. Hummus and Veggies – Creamy hummus served with raw veggie sticks makes for a healthy, crunchy side.
3. Caprese Skewers – Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze offer a delightful bite.
4. Quinoa Salad – A protein-packed quinoa salad with cucumbers and cherry tomatoes complements the pasta perfectly.
5. Stuffed Bell Peppers – Colorful bell peppers filled with rice and herbs provide a hearty yet healthy addition.
6. Roasted Chickpeas – Crispy chickpeas seasoned with spices bring an irresistible crunch to your meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common mistakes can make your Lemon Basil Pasta Salad truly shine. Here are a few pitfalls to watch out for:

• Overcooking the Pasta: Cooking pasta too long can result in a mushy texture. Always follow the package instructions and aim for al dente, which means it should still have a bit of bite.

• Skipping Salt in Cooking Water: Not salting the cooking water can lead to bland pasta. Be generous with salt; it enhances flavor during cooking.

• Not Draining Zucchini Properly: Failing to draw out moisture from zucchini can make your salad watery. Sprinkle salt on the zucchini and let it rest before patting it dry.

• Ignoring Fresh Herbs: Using dried herbs instead of fresh ones can dull the flavors of your salad. Fresh basil and parsley provide vibrant taste and aroma, so always opt for fresh herbs when possible.

• Making Dressing Too Early: Preparing the dressing too far in advance may lead to separation or loss of flavor. Make it just before you’re ready to toss the salad for best results.

• Using Cold Ingredients: If any ingredients are cold from the fridge, it could cool down the pasta salad unexpectedly. Allow ingredients like yogurt and lemon juice to come to room temperature before mixing.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Lemon Basil Pasta Salad in an airtight container.
• It will last for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
• Keep the dressing separate if you anticipate leftovers to maintain freshness.

Freezing Lemon Basil Pasta Salad

• This salad is best enjoyed fresh but can be frozen.
• Place it in a freezer-safe container for up to 1 month.
• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before consuming.

Reheating Lemon Basil Pasta Salad

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread salad evenly on a baking sheet and warm for about 10 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat in short intervals of 30 seconds until warmed through, stirring occasionally.
• Stovetop: Place in a skillet over low heat, stirring frequently until heated evenly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about preparing Lemon Basil Pasta Salad:

Can I customize my Lemon Basil Pasta Salad?

Absolutely! You can add vegetables like bell peppers, cherry tomatoes, or even chickpeas for extra protein and texture.

Is Lemon Basil Pasta Salad vegan-friendly?

Yes! This recipe is plant-based, especially with plant-based yogurt used as a creamy element.

How do I make Lemon Basil Pasta Salad gluten-free?

Simply substitute regular pasta with gluten-free pasta varieties available at most grocery stores.

What herbs can I use besides basil?

You can experiment with other fresh herbs like cilantro or dill if you prefer different flavors in your pasta salad.

Can I prepare this salad ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare it several hours ahead; just keep the dressing separate until serving for optimal freshness.

Final Thoughts

This Lemon Basil Pasta Salad is not only a delightful dish but also a versatile one that allows for numerous customizations. From adding more veggies to adjusting seasonings, you can tailor it to suit your preferences. Try this refreshing recipe today, and enjoy its bright flavors!