Description

Lemon Basil Parmesan Pasta Salad is a vibrant and refreshing dish that brings the perfect balance of zesty flavors and wholesome ingredients. Ideal for picnics, barbecues, or casual dinners, this pasta salad is not only quick to prepare but also versatile enough to serve as a side or main course. With the bright notes of lemon, aromatic basil, and the crunch of pine nuts, each bite is a delightful experience. Featuring fresh arugula and parmesan cheese, this salad is both nutritious and satisfying.

Ingredients

Scale

1 pound bowtie pasta
1 to 2 cloves garlic (grated; 2 cloves if small)
1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
1 teaspoon lemon zest
2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
2 tablespoons white balsamic vinegar
1/2 teaspoon dijon mustard
3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
1/3 cup pine nuts
2 handfuls baby arugula
1/3 cup parmesan cheese (freshly grated, plus more for serving)
1/4 cup thinly sliced fresh basil leaves (plus more for serving; optional)
kosher salt to taste
freshly ground black pepper to taste

Instructions

Fill a large pot with water and add fine salt. Bring to a boil.
Add the bowtie pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente.
Drain the pasta in a colander and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process. Set aside.
In a dry skillet over medium heat, add the pine nuts.
Toast them for about 3-5 minutes until golden brown, stirring frequently to avoid burning. Remove from heat and let cool.
In a mixing bowl, combine grated garlic, kosher salt, black pepper, lemon zest, lemon juice, white balsamic vinegar, dijon mustard, and olive oil.
Whisk together until well combined and emulsified.
In a large mixing bowl, add the cooked pasta, toasted pine nuts, baby arugula, grated parmesan cheese, and sliced basil leaves.
Pour the dressing over the salad ingredients and toss gently until everything is evenly coated.
Adjust seasoning with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
Serve immediately or chill in the refrigerator for an hour before serving for enhanced flavor.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Category: Salad
Method: Mixing
Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 cup (200g)
Calories: 320
Sugar: 2g
Sodium: 310mg
Fat: 16g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Unsaturated Fat: 13g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 36g
Fiber: 4g
Protein: 10g
Cholesterol: 10mg

Keywords: For added nutrition, consider incorporating cherry tomatoes or bell peppers. Allowing the salad to chill for at least 30 minutes enhances the flavor as it melds together.