Lemon Basil Pasta Salad
A refreshing and vibrant pasta salad with fresh basil, lemon, and cherry tomatoes, perfect for warm weather gatherings or quick weeknight dinners.
Ingredients
Pasta and Seasonings
- 8 ounces pasta (bow tie, penne, or rotini)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ cup fresh lemon juice (about 2 lemons)
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
Fresh Ingredients
- ½ cup basil leaves, finely chopped Fresh basil is preferred over dried.
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1½ cups cherry tomatoes, halved Add gently to avoid bruising.
Instructions
Preparation
- Bring a big pot of salted water to a boil. Drop in the pasta and cook according to the package directions until al dente. Drain the pasta and rinse it briefly under cool water.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the olive oil, salt, pepper, lemon juice, and lemon zest.
- Add the cooled pasta to the bowl with the dressing and gently toss to coat. Fold in the basil, Parmesan, feta, and cherry tomatoes without smashing them.
- Cover the bowl and let the salad chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Notes
For best flavor, serve chilled. Pairs well with grilled chicken or fish. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to three days.