Lemon Basil Parmesan Pasta Salad is a delightful dish that brings the freshness of spring and summer right to your table. This vibrant salad combines al dente pasta, peppery arugula, fragrant basil, and nutty parmesan cheese, all tossed in a zesty lemon vinaigrette. Ideal for picnics, barbecues, or light dinners, this pasta salad showcases a symphony of flavors that are sure to impress.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick Preparation: This salad can be ready in just 45 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.
- Fresh Ingredients: Featuring fresh basil and arugula, this dish bursts with flavor while being nutritious.
- Versatile Dish: Great as a side or main course, you can serve it warm or chilled, adapting it for any occasion.
- Crowd-Pleaser: With its bright flavors and appealing presentation, this pasta salad is sure to please both family and friends.
- Easy to Customize: Feel free to add your favorite vegetables or proteins for a personalized touch!
Tools and Preparation
To create your Lemon Basil Parmesan Pasta Salad effortlessly, gather the right tools. Having the essential kitchen equipment will make your cooking experience smooth and enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Pot for boiling pasta
- Colander for draining pasta
- Mixing bowl for tossing ingredients
- Whisk for making the vinaigrette
- Measuring cups and spoons
Importance of Each Tool
- Pot for boiling pasta: A good-quality pot ensures even cooking of your pasta.
- Colander for draining pasta: Draining properly prevents soggy pasta and keeps your salad light.
- Mixing bowl for tossing ingredients: A large bowl allows you to combine everything without spilling.
- Whisk for making the vinaigrette: Achieves a smooth emulsification of the dressing ingredients.
Ingredients
For the Dressing
- 1 to 2 cloves garlic (grated) (2 cloves 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 (I eyeball this)
- 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)
For Garnish
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
How to Make Lemon Basil Parmesan Pasta Salad
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Add the bowtie pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente.
- Drain the pasta in a colander and rinse under cold water to stop cooking.
Step 2: Toast the Pine Nuts
- In a dry skillet over medium heat, add the pine nuts.
- Stir frequently until golden brown and fragrant—about 3–5 minutes.
- Remove from heat and set aside.
Step 3: Prepare the Vinaigrette
- In a mixing bowl, add grated garlic, kosher salt, black pepper, lemon zest, lemon juice, white balsamic vinegar, and dijon mustard.
- Whisk together until well combined.
- Slowly drizzle in extra virgin olive oil while whisking continuously until emulsified.
Step 4: Combine All Ingredients
- In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked pasta, toasted pine nuts, baby arugula, parmesan cheese, and basil leaves.
- Pour the vinaigrette over the salad mixture.
- Toss gently until everything is well coated.
Step 5: Season & Serve
- Taste the salad; adjust seasoning with kosher salt and black pepper as needed.
- Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to an hour before serving to allow flavors to meld even more! Enjoy your refreshing Lemon Basil Parmesan Pasta Salad!
How to Serve Lemon Basil Parmesan Pasta Salad
Lemon Basil Parmesan Pasta Salad is a delightful dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether as a light lunch or a side at dinner, this salad is versatile and refreshing, making it suitable for warm weather gatherings.
As a Main Dish
- Serve it chilled for a satisfying meal.
- Pair with grilled chicken or shrimp for added protein.
As a Side Dish
- Complement barbecued meats during summer cookouts.
- Ideal alongside fish dishes, enhancing the flavors of both.
In a Picnic Setting
- Pack in portable containers for outdoor dining.
- Enjoy with fresh bread and cheese for a complete picnic spread.
As Meal Prep
- Store in airtight containers for quick lunches throughout the week.
- The flavors deepen after a day in the fridge, making it even tastier!
How to Perfect Lemon Basil Parmesan Pasta Salad
To ensure your Lemon Basil Parmesan Pasta Salad is always delicious, follow these helpful tips.
- Use fresh ingredients: Fresh basil and arugula elevate the flavor significantly.
- Toast pine nuts: Lightly toasting enhances their nuttiness and adds depth to the dish.
- Adjust acidity: Depending on your taste, you can tweak lemon juice and vinegar levels for more brightness.
- Chill before serving: Allowing the salad to sit in the fridge melds all the flavors beautifully.
- Season pasta water well: A well-seasoned cooking water infuses flavor right into the pasta itself.
Best Side Dishes for Lemon Basil Parmesan Pasta Salad
Lemon Basil Parmesan Pasta Salad pairs wonderfully with various side dishes. Consider these options for a well-rounded meal.
- Grilled Chicken Skewers: Marinated chicken skewers add protein and are easy to prepare on the grill.
- Caprese Salad: Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil create a light and refreshing contrast.
- Garlic Bread: Crunchy garlic bread complements the salad’s flavors perfectly.
- Roasted Vegetables: A mix of seasonal vegetables brings earthy tones that balance the salad’s brightness.
- Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn adds a delightful crunch and sweetness in every bite.
- Fruit Salad: A blend of summer fruits provides a sweet finish to your meal.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Lemon Basil Parmesan Pasta Salad, it’s easy to overlook some key steps. Here are common mistakes and how to steer clear of them.
- Using stale ingredients: Always check the freshness of your basil and parmesan cheese. Fresh ingredients make a big difference in flavor.
- Overcooking pasta: Cook the pasta al dente, as it will continue to soften when mixed with the dressing. Follow package instructions closely.
- Skipping the seasoning: Don’t forget to season your pasta water with salt. This adds essential flavor to the pasta itself.
- Neglecting the vinaigrette balance: Ensure you balance lemon juice and olive oil in your dressing for a harmonious taste. Adjust according to your preference.
- Forgetting to toast pine nuts: Toasting pine nuts enhances their flavor. Don’t skip this step; it only takes a few minutes!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Let the salad cool completely before sealing it up to prevent sogginess.
Freezing Lemon Basil Parmesan Pasta Salad
- Freezing is not recommended as it can change the texture of the ingredients.
- If necessary, store without dressing and freeze for up to 1 month.
Reheating Lemon Basil Parmesan Pasta Salad
- Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and warm in a covered dish for about 10 minutes.
- Microwave: Heat on medium power in short intervals, stirring occasionally until warmed through.
- Stovetop: Place in a skillet over low heat, stirring gently until heated.
Frequently Asked Questions
What can I add to Lemon Basil Parmesan Pasta Salad?
You can customize this salad by adding grilled chicken, cherry tomatoes, or olives for extra flavor and texture.
Can I make Lemon Basil Parmesan Pasta Salad ahead of time?
Yes! This salad can be made a day in advance. Just add extra dressing before serving if needed.
How do I serve Lemon Basil Parmesan Pasta Salad?
Serve chilled or at room temperature as a side dish or light main course, perfect for picnics or gatherings.
Can I use different types of pasta?
Absolutely! While bowtie pasta is used here, any small pasta like fusilli or shells works well too.
Final Thoughts
Lemon Basil Parmesan Pasta Salad is not only refreshing but also versatile enough for various occasions. Its bright flavors make it ideal for warm weather meals, and you can easily tailor it to your taste by adding proteins or veggies. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy its delightful blend of tastes!
Lemon Basil Parmesan Pasta Salad
Lemon Basil Parmesan Pasta Salad is a vibrant and refreshing dish that perfectly captures the essence of spring and summer. This delightful salad features al dente bowtie pasta tossed with peppery arugula, aromatic fresh basil, and nutty parmesan cheese, all drizzled with a zesty lemon vinaigrette. Whether enjoyed at a picnic, barbecue, or as a light dinner, this pasta salad is a flavorful crowd-pleaser that’s easy to make and customize. With its bright colors and delicious taste, it’s sure to impress family and friends alike.
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6
Ingredients
- 1 pound bowtie pasta
- 2 cloves garlic
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons white balsamic vinegar
- 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 1/3 cup pine nuts
- 2 handfuls baby arugula
- 1/3 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves
Instructions
- Cook the bowtie pasta in salted boiling water until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water.
- Toast the pine nuts in a dry skillet over medium heat until golden brown.
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together garlic, kosher salt, black pepper, lemon zest, lemon juice, white balsamic vinegar, dijon mustard, and olive oil until emulsified.
- In a large bowl, combine cooked pasta, toasted pine nuts, arugula, parmesan cheese, and basil leaves. Pour the vinaigrette over the salad and toss gently.
- Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper to taste. Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to an hour before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: Boiling / Mixing
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 320mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 9g
- Cholesterol: 10mg
Keywords: Feel free to add cherry tomatoes or grilled chicken for extra flavor. For optimal freshness, use high-quality ingredients like freshly grated parmesan and seasonal vegetables.
