Description
A vibrant and refreshing pasta salad starring zesty lemon, fragrant fresh basil, and a light dressing, perfect for any summer occasion.
Ingredients
12 oz short pasta (e.g., campanelle, fusilli, penne)
1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
2 tablespoons white wine vinegar
1/2 teaspoon black pepper, freshly ground
1/4 cup pine nuts, lightly toasted
1/2 cup fresh Parmesan cheese, grated
1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
Salt to taste
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the pasta according to package directions in a large pot of salted boiling water until al dente. Drain the pasta and immediately rinse thoroughly with cold water to stop the cooking process and cool it down. Set aside.
Step 2: While the pasta cooks, prepare the dressing. In a small bowl or jar, whisk together the extra virgin olive oil, fresh lemon juice, white wine vinegar, and black pepper. Season with a pinch of salt to taste. Shake or whisk until well combined.
Step 3: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta, toasted pine nuts, grated Parmesan cheese, and chopped fresh basil. Pour the prepared lemon dressing over the pasta mixture.
Step 4: Toss all ingredients gently until the pasta is evenly coated with the dressing. Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt or pepper if needed.
Step 5: For best flavor, cover the bowl and refrigerate the pasta salad for at least 30 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully. You can make this salad up to 24 hours in advance.
Notes
For an extra burst of flavor, you can add a tablespoon of lemon zest to the dressing. If making ahead, add a splash of olive oil or lemon juice before serving if the pasta seems a little dry, as it will absorb some of the dressing over time.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: No-Cook (after initial pasta boil)
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 250mg
- Fat: 16g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 9g
- Cholesterol: 15mg