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Fresh Lemon Basil Pasta Salad

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A quick and refreshing pasta salad featuring bright lemon juice, fresh basil, and a light olive oil dressing. Perfect for a light lunch, side dish, or picnic, ready in under 20 minutes.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 8 ounces fusilli or rotini pasta
  • 1 cup loosely packed fresh basil, chopped
  • Juice of 2 medium lemons (about 3 tablespoons or 45 ml)
  • 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • ¼ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese (20 grams)
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved (optional)
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional)

Instructions

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add 8 ounces of fusilli or rotini pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, about 9 to 11 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
  2. Drain the pasta in a colander and rinse briefly under cold water to stop the cooking process and cool it down. Set aside to drain completely.
  3. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the juice of 2 lemons, 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil, 1 minced garlic clove, salt, and pepper to taste. Add a pinch of red pepper flakes if using. Whisk until the dressing emulsifies and becomes slightly creamy.
  4. Add the cooled pasta to the bowl with the dressing. Toss gently to coat every piece well.
  5. Fold in 1 cup of halved cherry tomatoes (optional) and about 1 cup of chopped fresh basil. Toss lightly again.
  6. Sprinkle ¼ cup freshly grated Parmesan over the salad and give it one last gentle toss.
  7. Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt, pepper, or lemon juice if needed. Let the salad sit for 10 minutes at room temperature to allow flavors to meld before serving.

Notes

Rinse pasta under cold water after draining to stop cooking and prevent mushiness. Use freshly squeezed lemon juice for best flavor. Toss salad gently to keep pasta intact. Basil should be added last to keep it vibrant. Adjust seasoning gradually. Can be made vegan by omitting Parmesan or using a plant-based cheese alternative. Gluten-free pasta can be substituted for a gluten-free version.

Nutrition

Keywords: lemon basil pasta salad, quick pasta salad, easy pasta salad, summer salad, fresh herb salad, lemon pasta salad, basil pasta salad

Find it online: https://flurpchef.com/fresh-lemon-basil-pasta-salad-recipe-easy-ready-in-20-minutes/