Description
Lemon Basil Parmesan Pasta Salad is the perfect dish for any warm-weather gathering, potluck, or light dinner. This refreshing salad features a delightful blend of zesty lemon, fresh basil, and peppery arugula, making it both flavorful and satisfying. With its quick preparation time of just 45 minutes, this dish is not only easy to make but also highly versatile. Whether served as a standalone meal or paired with grilled proteins and crusty bread, this pasta salad is sure to impress your guests. Enjoy it chilled for the best flavor and feel free to customize it with your favorite vegetables or proteins.
Ingredients
- Bowtie pasta (or small pasta of choice)
- Fresh basil leaves
- Arugula
- Pine nuts
- Parmesan cheese
- Garlic
- Lemon juice and zest
- Olive oil
- White balsamic vinegar
- Dijon mustard
Instructions
- Cook 1 pound of bowtie pasta in salted water until al dente; drain and reserve some pasta water.
- In a skillet, toast 1/3 cup pine nuts until golden brown.
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together garlic, salt, pepper, lemon zest, lemon juice, white balsamic vinegar, Dijon mustard, and olive oil.
- Combine cooked pasta with arugula, toasted pine nuts, parmesan cheese, and fresh basil in the same bowl.
- Mix thoroughly to coat with dressing; adjust seasoning as needed and serve chilled.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Mixing
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 400mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 10g
- Cholesterol: 10mg
Keywords: Use fresh ingredients for the best flavor. Chill the salad for at least 30 minutes before serving to meld flavors. Customize with additional vegetables like cherry tomatoes or bell peppers.