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Fresh Cold Lemon Basil Pasta Salad

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A refreshing and light cold pasta salad featuring lemon zest, fresh basil, and a simple dressing, perfect for potlucks and easy meals.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 12 ounces short pasta (rotini, penne, or fusilli)
  • 1 cup fresh basil, loosely packed and chopped
  • Zest and juice of 2 medium lemons (about 3 tablespoons juice)
  • 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
  • 1 clove garlic, finely minced
  • 1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for serving
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved (optional)
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional)
  • 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup (optional)

Instructions

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add 12 ounces of pasta and cook according to package instructions (9-11 minutes) until al dente, stirring occasionally.
  2. Drain pasta in a colander and rinse under cold water until completely cool. Shake gently to remove excess water.
  3. In a small bowl, whisk together lemon juice and zest, olive oil, minced garlic, and honey or maple syrup if using. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Whisk until emulsified and slightly thickened.
  4. Transfer cooled pasta to a large mixing bowl. Add chopped basil, halved cherry tomatoes (if using), and grated Parmesan cheese.
  5. Pour the dressing over the pasta mixture and toss gently but thoroughly to coat evenly. Add red pepper flakes if desired and toss again.
  6. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to let flavors meld. A 15-minute chill works in a pinch, but longer is better.
  7. Before serving, stir gently and adjust seasoning if needed. Garnish with extra Parmesan or basil leaves.

Notes

Rinse pasta under cold water immediately after cooking to stop cooking and prevent sogginess. Tear basil leaves by hand to avoid bruising. Whisk dressing until emulsified for best coating. Salad tastes better after chilling overnight. Can be made vegan by omitting Parmesan or using vegan cheese. Gluten-free pasta can be substituted.

Nutrition

Keywords: lemon basil pasta salad, cold pasta salad, potluck salad, easy pasta salad, fresh basil salad, lemon pasta salad

Find it online: https://yumnode.com/fresh-cold-lemon-basil-pasta-salad-recipe-perfect-for-easy-potluck-meals/