Lemon Basil Pasta Salad

This Lemon Basil Pasta Salad is a delightful dish that brings together fresh flavors and vibrant colors. Perfect for summer picnics, light lunches, or as a side at your next gathering, this salad is not only refreshing but also packed with wholesome veggies. The combination of lemon and basil gives it a unique twist that stands out from traditional pasta salads.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Refreshing Flavor: The bright notes of lemon and the aromatic basil create an invigorating taste experience.
• Quick and Easy: With a prep time of just 15 minutes, you can whip this up in no time, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• Versatile Dish: Enjoy it as a main dish or a side, this salad fits perfectly into various meals or occasions.
• Healthy Ingredients: Packed with greens and wholesome ingredients, it’s both nutritious and satisfying.
• Make Ahead Friendly: This pasta salad holds up well in the fridge, making it ideal for meal prep or entertaining.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, gather the essential tools to make your preparation smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large mixing bowl
• Pot for boiling pasta
• Skillet
• Blender
• Clean towel

Importance of Each Tool

• Large mixing bowl: Provides ample space to combine all ingredients without spilling.
• Pot for boiling pasta: A sturdy pot ensures even cooking and prevents sticking.
• Skillet: Ideal for sautéing vegetables to enhance their flavor through caramelization.
• Blender: Essential for creating a smooth dressing that ties all components together.

Ingredients

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

Ingredients:
– 1 large zucchini, cut into 3/4 inch half moons
– 8 oz of orecchiette pasta
– 2-3 cups spinach, roughly chopped
– 1, 6.5 oz jar of marinated artichoke hearts, diced
– 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 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 & Lemon

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

Step 5: Blend Dressing

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

Step 6: Combine Salad

• Pour half the dressing over the pasta mixture and mix well. Add more dressing as desired or reserve any extra for serving.

Enjoy your delicious Lemon Basil Pasta Salad!

How to Serve Lemon Basil Pasta Salad

Lemon basil pasta salad is a delightful dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Its bright flavors and fresh ingredients make it a versatile option for any meal. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your dining experience.

As a Standalone Lunch

• A satisfying meal on its own, this salad packs flavor and nutrients. Pair it with a piece of crusty bread for added texture.

With Grilled Chicken or Turkey

• Topping the salad with grilled chicken or turkey adds protein and makes it more filling. The savory meat complements the freshness of the lemon basil dressing.

Accompanied by Fresh Bread

• Serve your pasta salad alongside a warm baguette or focaccia. The bread can be used to scoop up the salad, creating a fun and interactive meal.

As Part of a Picnic Spread

• This pasta salad is perfect for outdoor gatherings. It holds up well at room temperature, making it an excellent choice for picnics or potlucks.

With Roasted Vegetables

• Pairing your salad with roasted seasonal vegetables enhances the flavors and provides additional nutrients. The warm vegetables contrast nicely with the chilled pasta.

As a Meal Prep Option

• This salad stores well in the fridge, making it ideal for meal prep. Enjoy it throughout the week for quick lunches or light dinners.

How to Perfect Lemon Basil Pasta Salad

To ensure your lemon basil pasta salad turns out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh veggies and herbs enhance flavor and nutrition. Seek out ripe tomatoes, crisp cucumbers, and fragrant basil for the best results.

• Cook Pasta Al Dente: Cooking the pasta just right prevents it from becoming mushy when mixed with other ingredients. Follow package instructions closely.

• Customize Your Greens: While spinach is great, feel free to mix in other greens like arugula or kale for added variety and texture.

• Adjust Seasoning: Taste as you go! Adjust salt, pepper, or lemon juice according to your preference to achieve a balanced flavor profile.

• Chill Before Serving: Allowing the salad to chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving helps meld the flavors beautifully.

• Experiment with Add-Ins: Consider adding olives, cherry tomatoes, or bell peppers for extra color and taste. Get creative based on what you have available!

Best Side Dishes for Lemon Basil Pasta Salad

Lemon basil pasta salad pairs wonderfully with various side dishes that complement its vibrant flavors. Here are some great options to consider:

1. Grilled Vegetable Skewers
   Colorful skewers of zucchini, bell peppers, and mushrooms provide a smoky flavor that works well with fresh pasta salad.

2. Caprese Salad
   A classic caprese salad made with ripe tomatoes, mozzarella (or plant-based alternative), and fresh basil offers a refreshing contrast.

3. Garlic Bread
   Crispy garlic bread adds crunch and is perfect for scooping up any leftover pasta salad dressing.

4. Crispy Roasted Potatoes
   Seasoned roasted potatoes bring heartiness to the meal while enhancing its overall flavor profile.

5. Fruit Salad
   A light fruit salad can cleanse the palate between bites of rich flavors in the pasta dish, offering sweetness and brightness.

6. Hummus Platter
   A platter of hummus served with pita bread and assorted vegetable sticks makes for a healthy snack option next to your main dish.

7. Cucumber Feta Salad
   This refreshing cucumber feta salad balances acidity with creaminess, making it an excellent accompaniment to lemon basil pasta salad.

8. Zucchini Noodles
   Light spiralized zucchini noodles tossed in olive oil can create an interesting side that mirrors the main dish’s theme without being too heavy.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing your Lemon Basil Pasta Salad, it’s important to steer clear of common pitfalls that can detract from its freshness and flavor.

• Boldly Overcooking Pasta: Cooking the pasta too long can lead to a mushy texture. Always follow package instructions for al dente results.
• Ignoring Freshness: Using wilted herbs or old veggies can ruin the salad’s taste. Ensure all produce is fresh and bright for maximum flavor.
• Skipping Salting Steps: Not salting the pasta water or zucchini can result in bland flavors. Salt enhances taste, so don’t skip it!
• Overdressing Too Soon: Adding all the dressing at once can make the salad soggy. Start with half and add more as needed for balance.
• Neglecting to Pat Zucchini Dry: Failing to remove excess moisture from zucchini can dilute the salad. Be sure to pat them dry after salting.
• Not Adjusting Seasoning: Forgetting to taste and adjust seasoning might leave your salad flat. Always give it a taste test before serving.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days.
• Keep dressing separate if possible to maintain freshness.

Freezing Lemon Basil Pasta Salad

• It’s best not to freeze this salad, as vegetables may lose their texture after thawing.
• However, you may freeze individual components (like cooked pasta) for up to 1 month.

Reheating Lemon Basil Pasta Salad

• Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread the salad on a baking dish and heat until warm, about 10-15 minutes.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat in 30-second intervals until warm.
• Stovetop: Reheat in a skillet over low heat, stirring frequently until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Lemon Basil Pasta Salad.

What makes Lemon Basil Pasta Salad special?

Lemon Basil Pasta Salad combines bright flavors with fresh herbs and wholesome ingredients, making it a refreshing dish perfect for any occasion.

Can I customize my Lemon Basil Pasta Salad?

Absolutely! Feel free to add your favorite vegetables like cherry tomatoes or bell peppers for added crunch and color.

How do I store leftover Lemon Basil Pasta Salad?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Keep dressing separate if possible for best results.

Is Lemon Basil Pasta Salad good for meal prep?

Yes! This salad is perfect for meal prep as it stays fresh and flavorful when stored properly.

Can I use different types of pasta?

Definitely! Any pasta shape works well, but orecchiette holds dressing nicely, enhancing each bite of your Lemon Basil Pasta Salad.

Final Thoughts

This Lemon Basil Pasta Salad is not only delicious but also versatile. You can easily customize it with different vegetables or proteins based on your preference. Try making this vibrant dish today – it’s perfect for lunch or as a side at dinner!