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Lemon Basil Pasta Salad

Refreshing Lemon Basil Pasta Salad for Vibrant Summer Meals

This Lemon Basil Pasta Salad is a refreshing dish with vibrant flavors perfect for summer meals.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Salads
Cuisine: Vegan
Calories: 250

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta
  • 8 oz Pasta Use your favorite shape, like Orecchiette or gluten-free variety.
For the Dressing
  • 1 cup Plain unsweetened plant-based yogurt e.g., Forager Project, Silk's Soy
  • 2 medium Fresh lemons Always opt for fresh over bottled juice.
  • 1 tbsp Miso paste Can be substituted with 2 tbsp of nutritional yeast.
  • 1/2 cup Fresh herbs A mix of basil and parsley.
For the Vegetables
  • 1 medium Zucchini Feel free to swap with summer squash or use roasted broccoli.
  • 1 medium Red onion Can substitute with shallots or yellow onions.
  • 1 cup Artichoke hearts Marinated are best or substitute with sun-dried tomatoes.
  • 2 cups Spinach Can switch out for arugula or seasonal greens.

Equipment

  • large pot
  • Skillet
  • Mixing Bowl
  • Blender
  • 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, then pat dry.
  2. In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Cook pasta until al dente (8–10 minutes). Drain and rinse under cold water.
  3. Heat oil in a skillet. Sauté red onion with a pinch of salt for about 5 minutes until softened. Transfer to the pasta bowl.
  4. In the same skillet, cook zucchini rounds and halved lemons for 3–4 minutes per side until caramelized.
  5. In a blender, combine basil, parsley, lemon zest, garlic, pepitas, yogurt, miso, olive oil, lemon juice, and salt. Blend until smooth.
  6. Pour half of the dressing over the pasta mixture and toss gently. Serve with additional dressing on the side.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 250kcalCarbohydrates: 40gProtein: 8gFat: 7gSaturated Fat: 1gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 3gSodium: 200mgPotassium: 400mgFiber: 5gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 1000IUVitamin C: 30mgCalcium: 50mgIron: 2mg

Notes

This salad improves in flavor when made ahead and chilled overnight. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4-5 days.

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