Description
Lemon Basil Parmesan Pasta Salad is a delightful celebration of fresh flavors, perfect for any occasion from picnics to dinner parties. This vibrant salad features the zesty tang of lemon and the aromatic essence of basil, all harmoniously blended with al dente pasta and rich parmesan cheese. It’s not only quick to prepare but also highly versatile—serve it as a refreshing side or add grilled chicken or turkey for a satisfying main dish. With nutritious ingredients like arugula and pine nuts, this pasta salad is a healthy choice that will impress your guests while being simple enough for everyday meals.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 to 2 cloves garlic (grated)
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 2 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons white balsamic vinegar
- 1/2 teaspoon dijon mustard
- 3 tablespoon 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
- 1/3 cup parmesan cheese (freshly grated, plus more for serving)
- 1/4 cup thinly sliced fresh basil leaves
- kosher salt (to taste)
- freshly ground black pepper (to taste)
Instructions
- Cook the bowtie pasta in salted boiling water until al dente, then drain and rinse under cold water.
- Toast the pine nuts in a dry skillet over medium heat until golden brown.
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together garlic, salt, pepper, lemon zest, lemon juice, white balsamic vinegar, Dijon mustard, and olive oil to create the dressing.
- In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, toasted pine nuts, arugula, grated parmesan, and sliced basil. Pour the dressing over and toss gently.
- Chill for at least 30 minutes before serving for optimal flavor.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (150g)
- Calories: 282
- Sugar: 1 g
- Sodium: 265 mg
- Fat: 10 g
- Saturated Fat: 2 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 40 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 9 g
- Cholesterol: 6 mg