Description
Lemon Basil Parmesan Pasta Salad is a refreshing and vibrant dish that perfectly combines zesty lemon, fresh basil, and creamy parmesan for a delightful flavor explosion in every bite. This easy-to-make pasta salad is not only ideal for summer picnics and barbecues but also serves as a satisfying main course or a colorful side dish. Packed with nutritious ingredients like arugula and pine nuts, it’s a healthy option that can be prepared in just 35 minutes. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or looking for a quick lunch solution, this pasta salad will impress your guests and leave them craving more.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 pound bowtie pasta
- 2 handfuls baby arugula
- 1/3 cup pine nuts
- 1/4 cup thinly sliced fresh basil leaves
- 1/3 cup parmesan cheese (freshly grated)
- 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons white balsamic vinegar
- 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 1 to 2 cloves garlic (grated)
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 1/2 teaspoon dijon mustard
- Fine salt (for seasoning pasta water)
- Kosher salt (to taste)
- Freshly ground black pepper (to taste)
Instructions
- Cook pasta in salted boiling water until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together grated garlic, salt, pepper, lemon zest, lemon juice, vinegar, mustard, and olive oil to create the vinaigrette.
- Toast pine nuts in a dry skillet over medium heat until golden brown.
- In a large bowl, combine cooked pasta, toasted pine nuts, arugula, parmesan cheese, and basil. Drizzle in the vinaigrette and toss gently to combine.
- Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper to taste. Chill for at least 30 minutes before serving for enhanced flavors.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: Mixing
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 210mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 16g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 9g
- Cholesterol: 10mg