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Lemon Basil Parmesan Pasta Salad

Lemon Basil Parmesan Pasta Salad for a Refreshing Summer Bite

This Lemon Basil Parmesan Pasta Salad is a must-try for summer gatherings, combining vibrant flavors and textures in a refreshing dish.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Salads
Cuisine: American
Calories: 320

Ingredients
  

For the Vinaigrette
  • 2 cloves Garlic, grated Adds a robust flavor
  • 0.5 teaspoon Kosher Salt Enhances overall flavor
  • 0.25 teaspoon Black Pepper Provides subtle heat
  • 1 teaspoon Lemon Zest Adds a bright citrus aroma
  • 2 tablespoons Lemon Juice, freshly squeezed Contributes acidity
  • 2 tablespoons White Balsamic Vinegar Offers sweetness and tang
  • 0.5 teaspoon Dijon Mustard Acts as an emulsifier
  • 3 tablespoons Extra Virgin Olive Oil Provides richness
For the Salad
  • 1 pound Bowtie Pasta The base of the salad
  • Fine Sea Salt For cooking pasta
  • 1/3 cup Pine Nuts Adds a delicious crunch
  • 2 handfuls Baby Arugula Offers a peppery bite
  • 1/3 cup Parmesan Cheese, freshly grated Infuses savory depth
  • 1/4 cup Fresh Basil, thinly sliced A must for that fresh flavor

Equipment

  • medium-sized jar
  • Large pot
  • dry skillet
  • large mixing bowl

Method
 

Instructions
  1. In a medium-sized jar, combine 2 grated garlic cloves, 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt, and 1/4 teaspoon black pepper. Add 1 teaspoon lemon zest, 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice, 2 tablespoons white balsamic vinegar, and 1/2 teaspoon Dijon mustard. Pour in 3 tablespoons of high-quality extra virgin olive oil, then shake vigorously until well combined. Set aside.
  2. Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add 1 pound of bowtie pasta and cook according to package instructions, typically 8-10 minutes. Drain in a colander and rinse with cold water to stop cooking.
  3. In a dry skillet over medium heat, toast 1/3 cup of pine nuts, stirring frequently for about 4-6 minutes until golden and fragrant. Remove from heat and cool on a plate.
  4. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta, 2 handfuls of baby arugula, the toasted pine nuts, and 1/3 cup of freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Gently fold in 1/4 cup of thinly sliced fresh basil.
  5. Give the vinaigrette a quick shake, then pour it over the pasta salad mixture. Toss gently until well combined and adjust seasoning as necessary.
  6. Transfer the finished salad to a serving bowl. Garnish with extra basil leaves, lemon slices, or additional Parmesan if desired, and serve slightly chilled or at room temperature.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 320kcalCarbohydrates: 40gProtein: 10gFat: 16gSaturated Fat: 2gPolyunsaturated Fat: 4gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 6mgSodium: 400mgPotassium: 250mgFiber: 2gSugar: 1gVitamin A: 10IUVitamin C: 15mgCalcium: 120mgIron: 1mg

Notes

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Freeze the dressing separately for up to 2 months if needed.

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