Lemon Basil Parmesan Pasta Salad

Lemon Basil Parmesan Pasta Salad is a delightful dish that shines with fresh flavors and vibrant colors. This pasta salad is perfect for picnics, barbecues, or as a light meal on warm days. With its combination of tender pasta, peppery arugula, aromatic basil, and tangy lemon dressing, it’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Plus, it’s quick to prepare and can be made ahead of time, making it a go-to option for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This dish comes together in just 45 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.
• Fresh Flavors: Bright lemon juice and zest bring a zesty kick that pairs beautifully with the nutty parmesan and aromatic basil.
• Versatile Serving: Ideal as a side dish or a light main course, this salad suits any meal and dietary preference.
• Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with healthy ingredients like arugula and pine nuts, this pasta salad is both delicious and good for you.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Prepare it in advance; the flavors deepen as it sits, making it even more enjoyable the next day.

Tools and Preparation

To make your Lemon Basil Parmesan Pasta Salad seamlessly, having the right tools will enhance your cooking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Colander
• Mixing bowl
• Whisk
• Measuring spoons
• Grater

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Essential for cooking pasta evenly without overcrowding.
• Colander: Perfect for draining the pasta while keeping it intact.
• Mixing bowl: Allows ample space to mix ingredients thoroughly without spillage.
• Whisk: Ideal for blending your vinaigrette smoothly.

Ingredients

For the Vinaigrette

• 1 to 2 cloves garlic (grated (2 cloves if small))
• 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

For the Pasta Salad

• 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 ((I eyeball this))
• 1/3 cup parmesan cheese (freshly grated, plus more for serving)
• 1/4 cup thinly sliced fresh basil leaves (plus more for serving (optional))
• kosher salt (to taste)
• freshly ground black pepper (to taste)

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

How to Make Lemon Basil Parmesan Pasta Salad

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the bowtie pasta to the boiling water. Cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta in a colander and rinse under cold water to stop cooking.

Step 2: Toast the Pine Nuts

While the pasta cooks, toast the pine nuts in a dry skillet over medium heat. Stir frequently until they are golden brown and fragrant. Remove from heat and set aside.

Step 3: Prepare the Vinaigrette

In a mixing bowl, combine grated garlic, kosher salt, black pepper, lemon zest, lemon juice, white balsamic vinegar, dijon mustard, and olive oil. Whisk together until well mixed.

Step 4: Assemble the Salad

In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked pasta, toasted pine nuts, arugula, grated parmesan cheese, and basil leaves. Drizzle with vinaigrette and toss gently until everything is well coated.

Step 5: Season and Serve

Taste your salad and adjust seasoning with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper as needed. Serve chilled or at room temperature with additional parmesan on top if desired. Enjoy this refreshing Lemon Basil Parmesan Pasta Salad!

How to Serve Lemon Basil Parmesan Pasta Salad

Lemon Basil Parmesan Pasta Salad is not only delicious but also versatile. You can serve it in various ways to enhance your dining experience or fit different occasions.

As a Main Dish

• A refreshing option for lunch: Enjoy it on its own as a light meal.
• Perfect for picnics: Pack it in a container for outdoor gatherings.

As a Side Dish

• Complement grilled meats: This salad pairs beautifully with grilled chicken or fish.
• Serve at barbecues: It’s an excellent choice to serve alongside burgers and hot dogs.

On a Buffet Table

• Great for parties: Include it as part of a larger spread during celebrations.
• Make-ahead option: Prepare in advance so flavors meld together before serving.

How to Perfect Lemon Basil Parmesan Pasta Salad

To achieve the best flavor and texture in your Lemon Basil Parmesan Pasta Salad, consider these helpful tips.

• Cook pasta al dente: This ensures the pasta remains firm and holds up well in the salad.
• Use fresh ingredients: Opt for fresh basil and high-quality parmesan cheese for richer flavors.
• Cool pasta before mixing: Letting the pasta cool prevents wilting of greens when combined.
• Adjust seasoning after chilling: Taste and adjust salt and pepper levels after the salad has chilled for optimal flavor.

Best Side Dishes for Lemon Basil Parmesan Pasta Salad

Pairing side dishes with your Lemon Basil Parmesan Pasta Salad can elevate your meal. Here are some great options to consider.

1. Grilled Chicken Skewers: Juicy chicken marinated in herbs makes a delightful complement.
2. Garlic Bread: Crunchy and buttery, it’s perfect for soaking up any leftover dressing.
3. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal veggies roasted to perfection add color and nutrition.
4. Caprese Salad: Fresh tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil provide a classic Italian touch.
5. Fruit Salad: A light and refreshing fruit medley balances the savory flavors of the pasta.
6. Cheese Platter: Various cheeses can enhance the experience with different textures and tastes.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing Lemon Basil Parmesan Pasta Salad, there are a few common pitfalls to watch out for. Knowing these can help you create the best version of this refreshing dish.

• Using stale pasta: Fresh pasta provides better texture and flavor. Always check the expiration date on your pasta before using it.
• Skipping the salt in pasta water: Salt enhances the flavor of the pasta. Make sure to add fine salt to the boiling water before cooking your pasta.
• Overcooking the pasta: Overcooked pasta can become mushy. Aim for al dente by following package instructions closely.
• Not cooling down the pasta: Allowing hot pasta to cool properly helps prevent wilting the greens. Rinse under cold water or let it sit until room temperature before mixing with other ingredients.
• Ignoring fresh herbs: Dried herbs lack the vibrant flavor of fresh ones. Always opt for fresh basil when making this salad for maximum taste.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Keep in a cooler part of the fridge to maintain freshness.

Freezing Lemon Basil Parmesan Pasta Salad

• Not recommended, as the texture of ingredients may change once thawed.
• If necessary, freeze without dressing and add fresh ingredients after thawing.

Reheating Lemon Basil Parmesan Pasta Salad

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Spread salad in a baking dish and cover with foil. Heat until warmed through, about 15-20 minutes.
• Microwave: Place salad in a microwave-safe dish. Cover and heat in 30-second intervals until warm, stirring between bursts.
• Stovetop: Warm over low heat in a skillet, stirring gently until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make Lemon Basil Parmesan Pasta Salad ahead of time?

Yes, this salad is great for meal prep! You can prepare it up to a day in advance and store it in the fridge.

What type of pasta works best?

Bowtie pasta is recommended for its shape and texture, but you can use any small pasta like fusilli or penne.

How do I customize Lemon Basil Parmesan Pasta Salad?

Feel free to add veggies like cherry tomatoes or bell peppers, or even proteins like grilled chicken or chickpeas for extra nutrition.

Can I substitute other herbs?

Absolutely! If you don’t have basil, try using parsley or cilantro for a different flavor profile.

Is Lemon Basil Parmesan Pasta Salad vegan-friendly?

To make it vegan, simply omit the parmesan cheese or replace it with a plant-based alternative.

Final Thoughts

Lemon Basil Parmesan Pasta Salad is not only easy to prepare but also versatile enough for any occasion. Its bright flavors and crunchy textures make it a delightful addition to summer picnics or family dinners. Feel free to customize it with your favorite ingredients, ensuring that each bite is just as delicious as you envision!