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Lemon Basil Parmesan Pasta Salad

Lemon Basil Parmesan Pasta Salad
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Lemon Basil Parmesan Pasta Salad is a refreshing and vibrant dish bursting with flavors that will elevate any meal. Perfect for summer picnics, barbecues, or as a light side for dinner, this salad features al dente pasta tossed with peppery arugula, fragrant basil, and nutty parmesan cheese. Enhanced with a zesty lemon vinaigrette, it’s a delightful combination of textures and tastes that everyone will love. Easy to prepare in just 45 minutes, this recipe is not only quick but also versatile enough to serve as a main course or meal prep option for busy days. Enjoy it chilled, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully!

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound bowtie pasta (or other small pasta of choice)
  • 2 handfuls baby arugula
  • 1/4 cup thinly sliced fresh basil leaves (plus more for serving if desired)
  • 1/3 cup pine nuts
  • 1/3 cup parmesan cheese (freshly grated, plus more for serving)
  • 1 to 2 cloves garlic (grated)
  • 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
  • fine salt (for seasoning pasta water)

Instructions

  1. Cook the bowtie pasta in salted boiling water until al dente; drain and rinse under cold water.
  2. In a mixing bowl, whisk together grated garlic, salt, pepper, lemon zest, lemon juice, white balsamic vinegar, dijon mustard, and olive oil.
  3. Toast pine nuts in a dry skillet over medium heat until golden brown.
  4. In a large bowl, combine cooked pasta, arugula, toasted pine nuts, grated parmesan cheese, and sliced basil leaves.
  5. Pour dressing over the mixture and toss gently to coat evenly. Adjust seasoning if needed.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://recipesbyceleste.com/lemon-basil-parmesan-pasta-salad/

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