Bright and Zesty Delight (Lemon Basil Parmesan Pasta Salad)

Get ready for a burst of flavor with every forkful! This Lemon Basil Parmesan Pasta Salad is like sunshine in a bowl, perfect for those warm spring and summer days when you crave something light yet satisfying. Picture tender bowtie pasta dancing with peppery arugula, fragrant fresh basil, and nutty toasted pine nuts, all tossed in a bright, zesty lemon vinaigrette. It’s a dish that not only looks stunning but also brings an explosion of fresh tastes to your table. Trust me, you won’t be able to resist going back for seconds!

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Lemon Basil Parmesan Pasta Salad is a delightful combination of flavors and textures that will have your taste buds singing!

– Big, Bold Flavors: The vibrant lemon, aromatic basil, and creamy Parmesan meld together for a flavor explosion.
– Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for potlucks, picnics, or just a family dinner – everyone will rave about it!
– Flexible & Fast: Easy to whip up in just 45 minutes and can be tailored to suit your tastes!
– Make-Ahead Magic: This salad tastes even better after a few hours in the fridge as the flavors meld together.

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Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering your ingredients is half the fun! This Lemon Basil Parmesan Pasta Salad is as simple as it is flavorful, featuring fresh, vibrant components that shine. The star? Fresh basil and zesty lemon, which elevate this dish to a whole new level!

– 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
– 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 (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, optional)
– Kosher salt (to taste)
– Freshly ground black pepper (to taste)

*Note: You’ll find the complete list of ingredients, along with their exact measurements, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.*

Variations

What’s great about this Lemon Basil Parmesan Pasta Salad is its flexibility! Feel free to mix things up based on your preferences.

– Go Gluten-Free: Swap in gluten-free pasta for a delicious alternative.
– Add Extra Protein: Toss in some grilled chicken or chickpeas for a heartier dish.
– Make it Spicier: Add red pepper flakes for a kick of heat.
– Swap the Dressing: Try a balsamic glaze for a sweeter, richer flavor profile.
– Cheese it Up: Experiment with different cheeses like feta or goat cheese for an extra creamy twist.

How to Make Lemon Basil Parmesan Pasta Salad

Step 1: Cook and Cool the Pasta

Start by bringing a large pot of water to a boil. Season it generously with fine salt, then add the bowtie pasta. Cook according to package instructions until al dente. Once done, drain the pasta and rinse it under cold water to stop the cooking process. Let it cool while you prepare the dressing.

Step 2: Whisk the Creamy Dressing

In a lovely bowl, combine the grated garlic, kosher salt, black pepper, lemon zest, lemon juice, white balsamic vinegar, and Dijon mustard. Gradually whisk in the extra virgin olive oil until the dressing is well combined and slightly thickened.

Step 3: Toast the Pine Nuts

In a dry skillet over medium heat, add the pine nuts. Toast them, stirring frequently, until they are golden brown and fragrant. This step unlocks their nutty flavor!

Step 4: Assemble the Salad

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta, toasted pine nuts, baby arugula, freshly grated Parmesan, and sliced basil. Pour the bright dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine. Season with additional kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.

Step 5: Serve & Enjoy!

Transfer the salad to a serving dish or individual bowls, sprinkle with extra Parmesan and basil, and get ready to dig in!

Pro Tips for Making Lemon Basil Parmesan Pasta Salad

– Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Aim for al dente to keep the pasta firm and avoid mushiness.
– Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh basil and high-quality olive oil make a world of difference in flavor!
– Chill Before Serving: Let the salad chill in the fridge for at least 30 minutes before serving for the best flavor.
– Taste as You Go: Adjust the seasoning and dressing to your liking along the way!

How to Serve Lemon Basil Parmesan Pasta Salad

Garnishes

Brighten up your dish with extra slices of lemon on top, a sprinkle of more parmesan, and a few fresh basil leaves for that stunning presentation.

Side Dishes

Pair this vibrant salad with grilled chicken, shrimp skewers, or a light vegetable platter for a well-rounded meal.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve individual portions in mason jars for a fun picnic treat, or set up a buffet-style display with the salad in a large bowl for parties!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The flavors will continue to meld, making it even tastier!

Freezing

This salad is best enjoyed fresh, so I recommend keeping it refrigerated rather than frozen. The ingredients might not hold up well after thawing.

Reheating

Serve it cold straight from the fridge for a refreshing treat, or if you prefer, gently toss it in a skillet over low heat until warmed through, though I think it’s best served chilled!

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! Any small pasta shape like rotini, shells, or penne will work wonderfully.

How do I make this gluten-free?
Simply use gluten-free pasta and ensure the Dijon mustard and other condiments are gluten-free.

Can I prepare this in advance?
Yes! It’s perfect for meal prep. Just make sure to store it in an airtight container in the fridge.

Is this recipe spicy?
Not at all! It’s a fresh and zesty salad. However, feel free to add red pepper flakes if you’d like a bit of heat!

Final Thoughts

This Lemon Basil Parmesan Pasta Salad is a refreshing, wholesome dish that captures the essence of sunny days and good company. Easy to prepare and bursting with flavor, it’s a recipe you’ll want to keep in your rotation. So, gather your ingredients, unleash your inner chef, and get ready to enjoy delightful bites of this irresistible pasta salad. Bon appétit!