Name: Lemon Basil Parmesan Pasta Salad
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients: 1 to 2 cloves garlic (grated); 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt; 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper; 1 teaspoon lemon zest; 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice; 2 tablespoons white balsamic vinegar; 1/2 teaspoon dijon mustard; 3 tablespoons 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 (plus more for serving (optional)); kosher salt (to taste); freshly ground black pepper (to taste); 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

Description

Lemon Basil Parmesan Pasta Salad is a vibrant and refreshing dish that embodies the flavors of spring and summer. This delightful salad features perfectly cooked pasta, peppery arugula, and fragrant fresh basil, all tossed together with nutty pine nuts in a zesty lemon vinaigrette. With its bright flavors and simple preparation, it’s an ideal choice for picnics, barbecues, or light meals. The combination of lemon and parmesan adds a zing that elevates this dish to crowd-pleaser status. Not only is it quick to prepare in just 45 minutes, but it’s also packed with wholesome ingredients, making it both nutritious and satisfying. Enjoy this versatile salad as a standalone meal or pair it with grilled proteins for a complete dining experience.

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 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
2 tablespoons white balsamic vinegar
1/2 teaspoon dijon mustard
3 tablespoons 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 (plus more for serving (optional))
kosher salt (to taste)
freshly ground black pepper (to taste)
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

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Instructions

Cook bowtie pasta in salted boiling water until al dente. Drain and cool under cold water.
Toast pine nuts in a skillet over medium heat until golden brown.
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 cooled pasta with arugula, toasted pine nuts, parmesan cheese, and basil. Pour the dressing over and toss gently.
Season with additional salt and pepper to taste. Serve immediately or refrigerate for an hour to enhance flavors.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Category: Salad
Method: Mixing
Cuisine: Mediterranean

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 cup (200g)
Calories: 320
Sugar: 2g
Sodium: 400mg
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Unsaturated Fat: 15g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 32g
Fiber: 3g
Protein: 10g
Cholesterol: 10mg