Lemon Basil Pasta Salad

This Lemon Basil Pasta Salad is a delightful mix of bright flavors and fresh ingredients, making it perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue, bringing a dish to a potluck, or simply enjoying a light lunch, this salad delivers a refreshing taste that everyone will love. With its vibrant colors and wholesome veggies, it offers a lighter take on traditional pasta salads while keeping the essence of comfort food alive.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Refreshing Flavor: The combination of lemon and fresh basil adds a zesty kick that elevates the taste.
• Quick Preparation: With just 15 minutes of prep time, this dish is easy to whip up even on busy days.
• Versatile Ingredients: Feel free to swap in your favorite vegetables or grains to customize the recipe.
• Healthy Option: Packed with vitamins and nutrients from fresh veggies, this salad is as nutritious as it is delicious.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: This salad keeps well in the fridge, making it great for lunches throughout the week.

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools makes preparing your Lemon Basil Pasta Salad efficient and enjoyable. Here are some must-have items you’ll need.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large mixing bowl
• Skillet
• Pot for boiling pasta
• Colander
• Blender

Importance of Each Tool

• Large mixing bowl: Provides ample space to combine all ingredients without spilling.
• Skillet: Ideal for sautéing vegetables evenly and achieving perfect caramelization.
• Blender: Ensures your dressing is smooth and well-mixed for an even flavor throughout the salad.

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 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: Make the Dressing

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

Step 6: Combine Everything

Pour half of your dressing over the pasta mixture in the bowl. Stir well to combine all ingredients thoroughly. Add more dressing as desired or save extra for serving later.

Now you’re ready to enjoy your delicious Lemon Basil Pasta Salad!

How to Serve Lemon Basil Pasta Salad

This lemon basil pasta salad is versatile and can be enjoyed in many ways. Whether you’re serving it as a main dish or as a side, here are some great ideas to elevate your meal.

As a Main Dish

• Serve it chilled for a refreshing lunch option.
• Pair it with grilled chicken or turkey for added protein.

As a Side Dish

• Accompany it with grilled vegetables for a colorful plate.
• Serve alongside a light soup for a comforting meal.

At Picnics or Barbecues

• Pack it in portable containers for easy transport.
• Garnish with extra basil leaves for a vibrant look.

How to Perfect Lemon Basil Pasta Salad

To enhance your lemon basil pasta salad, consider these helpful tips that will elevate its flavor and texture.

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh herbs and vegetables bring vibrant flavors that dried versions can’t match.
• Adjust seasoning: Always taste and adjust the salt and lemon juice according to your preference for the perfect balance.
• Let it chill: Allow the salad to chill in the fridge for at least an hour before serving to let the flavors meld together.
• Customize textures: Add nuts or seeds for crunch; pepitas work wonderfully in this recipe.

Best Side Dishes for Lemon Basil Pasta Salad

This pasta salad pairs wonderfully with various side dishes. Here are some tasty options to complement your meal.

1. Grilled Asparagus: Lightly seasoned and grilled until tender, this vegetable adds a smoky flavor.
2. Roasted Cherry Tomatoes: Sweet and juicy, they provide a burst of flavor alongside the salad.
3. Cucumber Salad: A refreshing cucumber salad with vinegar dressing balances the richness of the pasta salad.
4. Garlic Bread: Crispy garlic bread is perfect for scooping up any leftover dressing.
5. Stuffed Bell Peppers: Colorful bell peppers filled with quinoa or rice make an attractive addition.
6. Vegetable Skewers: Skewered veggies grilled to perfection add variety and fun to your plate.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making lemon basil pasta salad can be simple, but there are a few common mistakes to watch out for.

• Skipping the Salting Step: Failing to salt the pasta water can lead to bland flavors. Always add a generous amount of salt when boiling your pasta for better taste.
• Overcooking the Pasta: Cooking pasta for too long can make it mushy. Follow the package instructions and aim for al dente texture for the best results.
• Not Patting Dry the Zucchini: Leaving excess moisture on zucchini can dilute the flavors of your salad. Salt and allow it to sit before patting dry to ensure crispness.
• Ignoring Fresh Herbs: Using dried herbs instead of fresh can significantly reduce flavor. Opt for fresh basil and parsley for a vibrant taste.
• Forgetting to Adjust Seasoning: Tasting as you go is crucial. Don’t forget to adjust salt or add more dressing based on your personal preference.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keeps well in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Freezing Lemon Basil Pasta Salad

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container, leaving some space for expansion.
• Best consumed within 1 month for optimal freshness.

Reheating Lemon Basil Pasta Salad

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and heat covered with foil until warm.
• Microwave: Use a microwave-safe dish and heat in short intervals, stirring between each until warmed through.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over low flame, adding a splash of water or broth if needed to prevent sticking.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making lemon basil pasta salad.

How can I customize my Lemon Basil Pasta Salad?

You can add your favorite vegetables like bell peppers or cherry tomatoes, or include proteins such as grilled chicken or chickpeas for extra nutrition.

Can I make Lemon Basil Pasta Salad ahead of time?

Yes! This salad is perfect for meal prep. You can prepare it a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator until serving.

What can I use instead of orecchiette pasta?

Any small pasta shape works well, such as farfalle or fusilli, so feel free to substitute based on what you have on hand.

Is Lemon Basil Pasta Salad suitable for picnics?

Absolutely! It’s light, refreshing, and travels well. Just keep it chilled until you’re ready to serve.

Final Thoughts

This lemon basil pasta salad is not only bright and flavorful but also offers great versatility. You can easily customize it by adding different vegetables or proteins based on your preferences. Give it a try, and enjoy a deliciously fresh meal!