Lemon Basil Parmesan Pasta Salad Recipe
A refreshing and flavorful Lemon Basil Parmesan Pasta Salad that’s perfect for picnics, potlucks, or as a light summer meal. The tangy vinaigrette paired with the nutty pine nuts and fresh herbs make this pasta salad a crowd-pleaser.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Salad
- Method: Mixing, Tossing
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
Scale
FOR THE VINAIGRETTE:
- 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 PASTA 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 (optional)
- Kosher salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- MAKE THE VINAIGRETTE: In a glass jar or container, combine garlic, kosher salt, black pepper, lemon zest, lemon juice, white balsamic vinegar, Dijon mustard, and olive oil. Shake well to mix.
- MAKE THE PASTA SALAD: Boil water in a pot, add salt and pasta. Cook pasta per package instructions. Drain, rinse with cold water, and drain well. Toast pine nuts until golden. In a bowl, combine pasta, arugula, pine nuts, Parmesan, and basil. Pour the dressing, toss, season, and serve.
Notes
- This salad can be made ahead of time, but add the dressing just before serving to avoid sogginess.
- Feel free to customize this salad with additional veggies or proteins.
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 380
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 380mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 3.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 13g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 5mg
Keywords: Lemon Basil Parmesan Pasta Salad, Pasta Salad, Summer Salad, Picnic Food, Potluck Recipe
