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Lemon Basil Pasta Salad

Zesty Lemon Basil Pasta Salad to Brighten Your Day

Discover a refreshing Lemon Basil Pasta Salad perfect for sunny days, featuring vibrant flavors and customizable ingredients.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Chilling Time 30 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Salads
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 320

Ingredients
  

For the Salad
  • 8 ounces Bowtie Pasta Use gluten-free pasta for a gluten-free option.
  • 4 cups Baby Arugula Provides a peppery bite.
  • ¼ cup Pine Nuts Toasted for crunch; watch closely as they brown quickly.
  • ½ cup Grated Parmesan Cheese Can substitute with feta for a tangy twist.
  • ½ cup Fresh Basil Torn leaves for added flavor.
For the Dressing
  • 1 clove Garlic Grated.
  • 1 pinch Salt
  • 1 dash Black Pepper
  • 1 lemon Lemon Zest
  • 2 tablespoons Lemon Juice
  • 2 tablespoons White Balsamic Vinegar Can be swapped with champagne or apple cider vinegar.
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon Mustard
  • ¼ cup Extra Virgin Olive Oil Adds richness.

Equipment

  • pot
  • skillet
  • Mixing Bowl
  • Jar for Dressing

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. In a small jar, combine grated garlic, salt, black pepper, lemon zest, lemon juice, white balsamic vinegar, Dijon mustard, and olive oil. Shake well to emulsify and set aside.
  2. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook bowtie pasta for 8-10 minutes until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water.
  3. Toast pine nuts in a dry skillet over medium heat for 5-6 minutes until golden brown, stirring frequently.
  4. In a large mixing bowl, combine cooled pasta, arugula, toasted pine nuts, parmesan cheese, and torn basil. Gently fold together.
  5. Pour the prepared vinaigrette over the salad mixture and toss gently to coat.
  6. Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and black pepper if needed. Garnish with more parmesan, basil leaves, and lemon slices before serving.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 320kcalCarbohydrates: 35gProtein: 10gFat: 16gSaturated Fat: 2.5gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 13gCholesterol: 5mgSodium: 230mgPotassium: 400mgFiber: 3gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 1200IUVitamin C: 30mgCalcium: 150mgIron: 1.5mg

Notes

For best flavor, allow the vinaigrette to sit for at least 30 minutes before using. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days.

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