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Lemon Basil Pasta Salad

Lemon Basil Pasta Salad: A Tangy Vegan Delight You’ll Love

Lemon Basil Pasta Salad is a vibrant, tangy, and vegan-friendly dish full of fresh ingredients.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Resting Time 5 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Salads
Cuisine: Vegan
Calories: 250

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta
  • 2 cups Pasta Use gluten-free pasta for a gluten-free option.
For the Dressing
  • 1 cup Plain Unsweetened Plant-Based Yogurt Can substitute with homemade cashew cream.
  • 1 tablespoon Miso Paste Or nutritional yeast for a lighter twist.
  • 1 Juice of 1 Lemon Use fresh lemons for best flavor.
For the Vegetables
  • Herbs (Basil and Parsley) Fresh herbs are recommended.
  • 1 medium Zucchini Can replace with summer squash or roasted broccoli.
  • 1 medium Red Onion Shallots or yellow onion can be used.
  • 1 cup Artichoke Hearts Can be replaced with sun-dried tomatoes, if desired.
  • 2 cups Spinach Arugula can be substituted for a peppery flavor.

Equipment

  • Large pot
  • Skillet
  • Colander
  • Blender
  • Mixing Bowl
  • Paper towels

Method
 

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Lemon Basil Pasta Salad
  1. Slice the zucchini into thin rounds and sprinkle with salt. Let sit for 5-10 minutes to draw out moisture. Pat dry with a paper towel and set aside.
  2. Bring salted water to a boil in a large pot. Add pasta and cook until al dente (8-10 minutes). Drain and rinse under cold water.
  3. Heat a skillet over medium heat with olive oil. Add chopped red onions and sauté for 5-7 minutes until translucent. Transfer to a mixing bowl to cool.
  4. In the same skillet, add zucchini rounds and cut lemon halves with cut-side down. Cook for about 6 minutes until caramelized. Flip lemon for even charring.
  5. In a blender, combine fresh basil, parsley, lemon zest, minced garlic, pepitas, plant-based yogurt, miso paste, olive oil, lemon juice, and salt. Blend until smooth.
  6. In the mixing bowl with the onions, add pasta, spinach, artichoke hearts, and caramelized zucchini. Pour in half the dressing and toss to coat. Adjust dressing and seasoning to taste.
  7. Serve chilled or store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4-5 days.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 250kcalCarbohydrates: 40gProtein: 8gFat: 5gSaturated Fat: 1gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 2gSodium: 350mgPotassium: 450mgFiber: 6gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 3500IUVitamin C: 30mgCalcium: 80mgIron: 2mg

Notes

Store the salad without dressing if making in advance to keep veggies crisp. Combine with dressing just before serving.

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