Lemon Basil Parmesan Pasta Salad

If you’re looking for a dish that sings with sunshine and brings a smile to your face, you’ve come to the right place! This Lemon Basil Parmesan Pasta Salad is a favorite of mine, bursting with fresh flavors and vibrant colors. It’s perfect for those warm spring and summer days when you want something light yet satisfying. Whether you’re hosting a family gathering, prepping for a picnic, or just need a quick meal on a busy weeknight, this pasta salad has got you covered!

What makes this recipe so special is its simplicity. With just a few wholesome ingredients, you can whip up a dish that feels like a treat. The combination of peppery arugula, fresh basil, and tangy lemon vinaigrette creates an explosion of flavor that will have everyone coming back for seconds.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: In just 45 minutes, you can have this delicious salad ready to serve.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike love the bright flavors and fun shapes of the pasta!
• Make-Ahead Convenience: This salad keeps well in the fridge, making it perfect for meal prep or leftovers.
• Fresh and Flavorful: The lemony vinaigrette brings out the best in each ingredient.
• Versatile Dish: Enjoy it as a side or add your choice of protein for a main course.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering these ingredients is half the fun! They are simple and wholesome, making this recipe not only easy but also deliciously satisfying.

For the Dressing

• 1 to 2 cloves garlic (grated; use 2 if small)
• 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• 1 teaspoon lemon zest
• 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
• 2 tablespoons white balsamic vinegar
• 1/2 teaspoon dijon mustard
• 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil

For the Salad

• 1 pound bowtie pasta (or other small pasta of choice)
• fine salt (for seasoning pasta water)
• 1/3 cup pine nuts
• 2 handfuls baby arugula
• 1/3 cup parmesan cheese (freshly grated, plus more for serving)
• 1/4 cup thinly sliced fresh basil leaves (plus more for serving if desired)
• kosher salt (to taste)
• freshly ground black pepper (to taste)

Variations

The beauty of this Lemon Basil Parmesan Pasta Salad lies in its flexibility! You can easily customize it to fit your tastes or what you have on hand.

• Add Protein: Toss in some grilled chicken or chickpeas for an extra boost!
• Change Up the Greens: Swap arugula for spinach or kale if you prefer.
• Mix in Veggies: Add cherry tomatoes, bell peppers, or cucumbers for added crunch and color.
• Try Different Nuts: Swap pine nuts with walnuts or slivered almonds for a unique twist.

How to Make Lemon Basil Parmesan Pasta Salad

Step 1: Prepare the Dressing

In a bowl, combine grated garlic, kosher salt, black pepper, lemon zest, lemon juice, white balsamic vinegar, dijon mustard, and olive oil. Whisk until everything is blended smoothly. This dressing is where all that zing comes from – it’s essential for brightening up the salad!

Step 2: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of water to boil and season it generously with fine salt. Add your bowtie pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. This step ensures your pasta has the perfect bite! Once cooked, drain and rinse under cold water to stop further cooking.

Step 3: Toast the Pine Nuts

In a dry skillet over medium heat, add pine nuts and toast them until they’re golden brown and fragrant. Keep an eye on them as they can burn quickly! Toasting enhances their flavor and adds delightful crunch to your salad.

Step 4: Assemble the Salad

In a large bowl, combine the cooled pasta with baby arugula, pine nuts, parmesan cheese, and basil leaves. Drizzle with the dressing you prepared earlier. Toss everything gently but thoroughly so that each piece is coated evenly. This is where all those lovely flavors come together!

Step 5: Season and Serve

Taste your salad and adjust seasoning with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper as needed. Serve immediately for optimal freshness or refrigerate it briefly if making ahead. Garnish with additional parmesan cheese or basil if desired!

Enjoy every bite of your Lemon Basil Parmesan Pasta Salad – it’s sure to become a beloved staple in your kitchen!

Pro Tips for Making Lemon Basil Parmesan Pasta Salad

Creating a delicious Lemon Basil Parmesan Pasta Salad is easy, but these tips will take your dish to the next level!

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh herbs and vegetables will enhance the flavor of your salad, making it taste vibrant and refreshing. Whenever possible, opt for the freshest basil, arugula, and lemons you can find.
• Toast the pine nuts: Lightly toasting the pine nuts brings out their natural oils and enhances their flavor. This simple step adds a delightful crunch that elevates the overall texture of the salad.
• Let it chill: Allowing your pasta salad to chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving lets all the flavors meld together beautifully. This makes each bite even more flavorful!
• Adjust seasoning: After mixing everything together, always taste and adjust the seasoning as needed. A little extra salt or pepper can make a big difference in bringing out all those lovely flavors.
• Make it ahead: This pasta salad is perfect for meal prep! You can make it a day in advance; just be sure to keep it covered in the fridge. The flavors deepen overnight, giving you an even tastier dish when you’re ready to enjoy it!

How to Serve Lemon Basil Parmesan Pasta Salad

This Lemon Basil Parmesan Pasta Salad is not only delicious on its own but also versatile when it comes to serving. Here are some fun ways to present this dish that will impress your family and friends!

Garnishes

• Extra grated parmesan: A sprinkle of freshly grated parmesan on top before serving adds an extra layer of flavor and makes the dish look appealing.
• Fresh basil leaves: For a pop of color and freshness, scatter some whole basil leaves over the top just before serving. It looks beautiful and enhances that herby aroma!
• Lemon wedges: Serve lemon wedges alongside your pasta salad for guests who might want an extra squeeze of citrus right before digging in.

Side Dishes

• Grilled Chicken Skewers: Juicy grilled chicken skewers marinated in lemon and herbs pair perfectly with this pasta salad, adding protein to your meal while keeping things light.
• Caprese Salad: The classic combination of tomatoes, mozzarella (or a dairy-free alternative), and fresh basil drizzled with balsamic glaze complements the flavors in your pasta salad beautifully.
• Roasted Vegetables: A medley of seasonal roasted vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, and asparagus adds depth to your meal while keeping everything colorful and vibrant.
• Garlic Bread: Crispy garlic bread is always a crowd-pleaser! Its buttery crunch contrasts nicely with the lightness of the pasta salad.

Enjoy assembling this delightful dish for any gathering or weeknight dinner—it’s sure to be a hit!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Lemon Basil Parmesan Pasta Salad is a fantastic option for meal prep! It stays fresh and flavorful, making it perfect for lunches or quick dinners throughout the week.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the pasta salad to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer any leftovers to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• If you notice any excess liquid after a day, give it a gentle stir to combine the ingredients again.

Freezing

• While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze the pasta salad for up to a month.
• Use a freezer-safe container or resealable plastic bag.
• Leave some space at the top of the container as the salad may expand when frozen.
• For best results, thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving.

Reheating

• Gently reheat individual portions in a microwave-safe bowl.
• Add a splash of olive oil or lemon juice to refresh the flavors if needed.
• Heat in 30-second intervals until warmed through, stirring occasionally.

FAQs

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

Can I make Lemon Basil Parmesan Pasta Salad ahead of time?

Absolutely! This pasta salad can be made up to two days in advance. Just store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator, and it will taste even better as the flavors meld together.

What can I substitute for parmesan cheese in Lemon Basil Parmesan Pasta Salad?

If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, try using nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor without dairy. You could also use a plant-based grated cheese that fits your dietary needs.

How can I make Lemon Basil Parmesan Pasta Salad gluten-free?

To make this recipe gluten-free, swap out regular pasta with your favorite gluten-free pasta. The rest of the ingredients remain delicious and satisfying!

Is Lemon Basil Parmesan Pasta Salad suitable for potlucks?

Yes! This salad is perfect for potlucks because it’s easy to transport and serves a crowd. Plus, its vibrant flavors will impress your friends!

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this delightful Lemon Basil Parmesan Pasta Salad as much as I do! It’s not only refreshing but also packed with flavor—perfect for those warm days when you want something light yet satisfying. Whether you’re prepping meals or bringing it to a gathering, this salad is sure to be a hit. Happy cooking, and enjoy every bite!