Lemon Basil Pasta Salad is a delightful dish that brings together fresh flavors in a simple, satisfying way. Perfect for busy days or casual gatherings, this vibrant salad combines zesty lemon, sweet basil, and creamy mozzarella for an irresistible combination. You can easily customize it based on what’s in your pantry or your personal taste preferences.
Recipe Information
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Servings: 6
Difficulty Level: Easy
Nutrition Information (per serving)
Calories: 290
Protein: 9g
Carbohydrates: 32g
Fat: 15g
Fiber: 2g
Sugar: 2g
Sodium: 250mg
Why Make Lemon Basil Pasta Salad
Lemon Basil Pasta Salad is not just tasty; it’s also a nutritious choice packed with fresh ingredients that contribute to a healthy diet. The cherry tomatoes are bursting with vitamins, while basil provides antioxidants. This dish is versatile enough for a light lunch, a side for dinner, or even a picnic favorite. Its refreshing taste makes it suitable for any occasion, from summer barbecues to cozy family meals.
How to Make Lemon Basil Pasta Salad Step by Step
Ingredients
12 oz pasta (penne or bowtie work best)
1½ cups cherry tomatoes (halved because whole tomatoes are a choking hazard)
1 cup fresh mozzarella pearls (tiny cheese balls = happiness)
½ cup fresh basil (chopped; don’t even think about using dried)
¼ cup extra virgin olive oil (good quality makes a difference)
¼ cup fresh lemon juice (squeeze it yourself—store-bought is cheating)
1 tsp lemon zest (adds an extra citrusy kick)
1 tsp honey (for a touch of sweetness)
1 tsp Dijon mustard (trust me, it works)
1 garlic clove (minced; because garlic improves everything)
½ tsp salt (adjust to taste)
½ tsp black pepper (adds just the right amount of bite)
Directions
Boil the pasta in salted water until al dente. Drain, rinse with cold water, and set aside.
Chop the cherry tomatoes, fresh basil, and mozzarella pearls while the pasta cools.
Whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, honey, Dijon mustard, garlic, salt, and black pepper in a small bowl.
Combine the pasta, tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil in a large mixing bowl.
Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss until everything is well coated.
Chill for at least 10 minutes before serving (if you can wait that long).
How to Serve Lemon Basil Pasta Salad
This refreshing salad pairs wonderfully with grilled chicken or fish for a complete meal. For a lighter option, serve it alongside a simple green salad. It also makes an excellent dish for potlucks or picnics and can be enjoyed on its own as a satisfying snack.
How to Store Lemon Basil Pasta Salad
Leftover Lemon Basil Pasta Salad can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. If you have any dressing left, consider storing it separately to keep the pasta salad fresh and prevent it from becoming soggy. Reheat gently if preferred, but it’s equally delicious served cold. Freezing is not recommended, as the texture of pasta and fresh ingredients will change once thawed.
Expert Tips for Cooking Lemon Basil Pasta Salad
- Opt for high-quality ingredients to enhance the overall flavor, especially the olive oil and lemon juice.
- Allow the salad to chill in the fridge for at least 30 minutes for the flavors to meld.
- Consider adding some grilled shrimp or chicken for added protein.
- Experiment with different types of pasta like farfalle or fusilli for variety.
- Don’t skip the lemon zest; it brings brightness and depth to the dressing.
Delicious Variations of Lemon Basil Pasta Salad
For a spicy kick, add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to your salad. If you want an herbed twist, include fresh parsley or mint along with the basil. For a vegetarian option, toss in some roasted vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers, or you can switch the lemon for lime for a different citrus note.
Conclusion
Give Lemon Basil Pasta Salad a try for your next meal; its refreshing flavors and easy preparation make it a must-have recipe! Whether you’re serving it up for a family dinner or taking it to a potluck, this salad will surely impress. Enjoy the vibrant tastes and the satisfaction of a dish that’s as simple as it is delicious!
Lemon Basil Pasta Salad
Ingredients
Pasta and Vegetables
- 12 oz pasta (penne or bowtie work best)
- 1.5 cups cherry tomatoes (halved) whole tomatoes are a choking hazard
- 1 cup fresh mozzarella pearls tiny cheese balls = happiness
- 0.5 cup fresh basil (chopped) don’t even think about using dried
Dressing
- 0.25 cup extra virgin olive oil good quality makes a difference
- 0.25 cup fresh lemon juice squeeze it yourself—store-bought is cheating
- 1 tsp lemon zest adds an extra citrusy kick
- 1 tsp honey for a touch of sweetness
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard trust me, it works
- 1 clove garlic (minced) because garlic improves everything
- 0.5 tsp salt adjust to taste
- 0.5 tsp black pepper adds just the right amount of bite
Instructions
Preparation
- Boil the pasta in salted water until al dente. Drain, rinse with cold water, and set aside.
- Chop the cherry tomatoes, fresh basil, and mozzarella pearls while the pasta cools.
- Whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, honey, Dijon mustard, garlic, salt, and black pepper in a small bowl.
Mixing
- Combine the pasta, tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil in a large mixing bowl.
- Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss until everything is well coated.
- Chill for at least 10 minutes before serving (if you can wait that long).
