This easy lemon basil pasta salad is a perfect dish for summer gatherings and picnics. Featuring a zesty lemon dressing, fresh basil, and al dente pasta, it’s a light and healthy option that can be made ahead of time.
This cold pasta salad with lemon dressing is not only vegetarian but also versatile, allowing you to customize it with your favorite vegetables. Enjoy this vibrant and flavorful pasta salad with fresh basil and lemon as a side or a main dish.
Vibrant Ingredients for a Refreshing Dish
The lemon basil pasta salad is a delightful combination of fresh ingredients that brings a burst of color and flavor to any table.
Cherry tomatoes, with their juicy sweetness, add a pop of red, while crisp cucumbers provide a refreshing crunch.
Fresh basil leaves contribute an aromatic touch, making this salad not only visually appealing but also fragrant and delicious.
Simple Preparation Steps
Creating this easy lemon basil pasta salad is straightforward and quick.
Start by cooking your choice of pasta until it reaches the perfect al dente texture.
Once cooked, rinse the pasta under cold water to cool it down, making it ideal for a refreshing summer dish.
Whipping Up the Zesty Dressing
The star of this salad is undoubtedly the zesty lemon dressing.
Combining olive oil, lemon juice, and zest, along with minced garlic, creates a vibrant lemon basil vinaigrette that ties all the ingredients together.
This dressing not only adds flavor but also enhances the freshness of the vegetables.
Combining the Ingredients
Once the pasta is cooled and the dressing is ready, it’s time to mix everything together.
In a large bowl, combine the pasta with halved cherry tomatoes, diced cucumber, finely chopped red onion, and fresh basil leaves.
Drizzle the lemon dressing over the salad and toss gently to ensure every bite is coated in that refreshing flavor.
Serving Suggestions
This salad can be enjoyed immediately or chilled for a bit to let the flavors meld.
For an extra touch, consider sprinkling crumbled feta cheese on top before serving.
Whether served as a side dish at a picnic or as a light main course, this lemon basil pasta salad is sure to impress.
Perfect for Summer Gatherings
With its vibrant colors and refreshing taste, this cold pasta salad with lemon dressing is perfect for summer gatherings.
It’s a vegetarian option that appeals to a wide range of tastes, making it a great addition to any menu.
Prepare this make-ahead pasta salad with basil for your next barbecue or picnic, and enjoy the compliments that follow!
Easy Lemon Basil Pasta Salad Recipe
This lemon basil pasta salad combines cooked pasta with a refreshing lemon herb vinaigrette, fresh basil, and seasonal vegetables. The recipe takes about 30 minutes to prepare and serves 4-6 people, making it an ideal make-ahead option for summer events.
Ingredients
- 8 ounces pasta of choice (gluten-free if needed)
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup cucumber, diced
- 1/2 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- Juice and zest of 1 lemon
- 1 teaspoon garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool.
- Prepare the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, minced garlic, salt, and pepper until well combined.
- Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, and fresh basil. Pour the lemon dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat.
- Serve: If using, sprinkle feta cheese on top before serving. This salad can be served immediately or chilled in the refrigerator for 30 minutes to enhance the flavors.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
Nutrition Information
- Servings: 4-6 servings
- Calories: 220kcal
- Fat: 10g
- Protein: 6g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
