Why Make This Recipe
Lemon Basil Parmesan Pasta Salad is a joyful blend of fresh flavors that perfectly balances the zesty brightness of lemon with the earthy warmth of basil. This dish is not just a salad; it’s a celebration of summer! It brings together the pasta’s heartiness, fresh cherry tomatoes, and the richness of Parmesan cheese. Whether you’re serving it at a family barbecue, a picnic in the park, or as a light weeknight dinner, this salad will light up your table. Plus, it’s simple enough to whip up on a busy day, making it a go-to dish for any occasion.
How to Make Lemon Basil Parmesan Pasta Salad
Ingredients:
- 8 ounces pasta (your choice)
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
- 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, shaved
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1 lemon, juiced
- Salt and pepper to taste
Directions:
- Cook the pasta according to the package instructions. Drain and let cool.
- In a large bowl, combine the cooled pasta, cherry tomatoes, and chopped basil.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
- Pour the dressing over the pasta salad and toss to combine.
- Add shaved Parmesan on top before serving.
- Serve chilled or at room temperature.
How to Serve Lemon Basil Parmesan Pasta Salad
Lemon Basil Parmesan Pasta Salad is incredibly versatile! Serve it as a side dish alongside grilled chicken or fish for a delightful meal. It can also stand alone as a light lunch. Garnish with extra basil or a sprinkle of Parmesan for a polished touch. This dish is equally delicious served cold from the fridge or at room temperature, making it perfect for picnics or potlucks!
How to Store Lemon Basil Parmesan Pasta Salad
To keep your Lemon Basil Parmesan Pasta Salad fresh, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will last for about 3 to 5 days. Keep in mind that the pasta may absorb some of the dressing, so give it a good toss before serving again. If you find the salad a bit dry after a few days, feel free to drizzle on a little extra olive oil and lemon juice to refresh the flavors!
Tips to Make Lemon Basil Parmesan Pasta Salad
- Choose pasta shapes that hold onto the dressing well, like rotini or fusilli.
- Use fresh basil for the best flavor; dried herbs won’t give the same punch.
- Let the salad sit for at least 30 minutes before serving. This helps the flavors meld beautifully.
- Adjust the seasoning based on your taste. A dash of red pepper flakes can give it a fun kick!
Variation (if any)
Feel free to add other seasonal veggies like cucumbers or bell peppers for extra crunch. For a protein boost, consider tossing in grilled chicken or chickpeas. You can also swap out the Parmesan for feta cheese for a different flavor profile. The beauty of this recipe is its adaptability—make it your own!
FAQs
How can I make Lemon Basil Parmesan Pasta Salad more filling?
To make your Lemon Basil Parmesan Pasta Salad more filling, you can add cooked proteins such as grilled chicken, shrimp, or even chickpeas. These additions not only increase the heartiness of the dish but also bring in new flavors that complement the bright lemon and basil.
Can I use dried basil instead of fresh?
While it’s possible to use dried basil in Lemon Basil Parmesan Pasta Salad, the flavor won’t be quite the same. Fresh basil offers a bright, aromatic quality that truly enhances the dish. If you must use dried, remember to reduce the amount since dried herbs are more concentrated.
How long can I store Lemon Basil Parmesan Pasta Salad in the refrigerator?
You can store Lemon Basil Parmesan Pasta Salad in an airtight container for about 3 to 5 days in the refrigerator. Make sure to give it a good toss before serving again, as the pasta might absorb some dressing over time.
What is the best type of pasta for salad?
For pasta salads like Lemon Basil Parmesan Pasta Salad, short pasta shapes like fusilli, rotini, or penne work best. These shapes hold the dressing well and provide a fun texture. Long pasta (like spaghetti) tends to clump together and doesn’t mix as easily.
Conclusion
I encourage you to try making Lemon Basil Parmesan Pasta Salad and enjoy the wonderful flavors it brings to your table. It’s a dish that reminds us of sunny days and family gatherings, a perfect friend for any meal. Remember, cooking is all about making memories, and this recipe is a delightful way to create those moments. If you loved this recipe, don’t forget to check out my food inspirations on Pinterest and Medium!
Lemon Basil Parmesan Pasta Salad
Ingredients
Method
- Cook the pasta according to the package instructions. Drain and let cool.
- In a large bowl, combine the cooled pasta, cherry tomatoes, and chopped basil.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
- Pour the dressing over the pasta salad and toss to combine.
- Add shaved Parmesan on top before serving.
- Serve chilled or at room temperature. Can be a side dish or a light lunch.