Description
This Lemon Basil Parmesan Pasta Salad is a refreshing and flavorful dish perfect for summer gatherings. The zesty lemon, fragrant basil, and nutty Parmesan cheese create a harmonious blend of flavors in every bite.
Ingredients
Scale
Pasta:
- 12 ounces short pasta (like rotini or farfalle)
Dressing:
- 1/3 cup olive oil
- 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice (about 2 lemons)
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Additional Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup finely chopped fresh basil
- 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
- Optional: 1/4 cup toasted pine nuts or chopped walnuts
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Boil pasta in salted water until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water.
- Prepare the Dressing: Whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, garlic, salt, and pepper in a large bowl.
- Combine Ingredients: Add pasta, Parmesan, tomatoes, basil, and red onion to the bowl. Toss to coat.
- Optional: Sprinkle with nuts before serving. Chill for 30 minutes. Serve cold or at room temperature.
Notes
- This salad can be made ahead. Add protein like grilled chicken or chickpeas for a complete meal.
- Use high-quality olive oil and Parmesan for the best taste.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: No-Cook (after boiling)
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 2 g
- Sodium: 280 mg
- Fat: 17 g
- Saturated Fat: 4 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 35 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 9 g
- Cholesterol: 10 mg
