Lemon Basil Parmesan Pasta Salad

This vibrant pasta salad combines fresh basil, zesty lemon, and parmesan, evoking nostalgic family gatherings with every bite.

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Prep Time 15

Cook Time 10

Total Time 25

Course Salad, Side Dish

Cuisine Italian

Servings servings

Calories 320 kcal

Ingredients

For the Vinaigrette

2 cloves cloves garlic, grated Use 2 cloves if small
0.5 teaspoon kosher salt
0.25 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
1 teaspoon lemon zest
2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
2 tablespoons white balsamic vinegar
0.5 teaspoon Dijon mustard
3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil Slowly drizzle while whisking

For the Salad

1 pound bowtie pasta or other small pasta of choice
1/3 cup pine nuts
2 handfuls baby arugula Eyeball this amount
1/3 cup parmesan cheese freshly grated, plus more for serving
1/4 cup thinly sliced fresh basil leaves plus more for serving, optional
Fine salt for seasoning pasta water
Kosher salt, to taste
Freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Instructions

Make the Vinaigrette

In a small bowl, whisk together the grated garlic, kosher salt, black pepper, lemon zest, lemon juice, white balsamic vinegar, and Dijon mustard.
Slowly drizzle in the olive oil while whisking to create a smooth, vibrant vinaigrette. Set aside to allow the flavors to meld.

Make the Pasta Salad

In a large pot, bring plenty of water to a rolling boil and season generously with fine salt.
Add the bowtie pasta and cook until al dente, usually about 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Before draining, reserve about a cup of pasta water. Drain the pasta and rinse it under cold water to stop the cooking process.
Once the pasta cools, add it to a large mixing bowl along with the vinaigrette, tossing well to coat.
Gently fold in the pine nuts, arugula, parmesan cheese, and fresh basil. If needed, use some reserved pasta water to loosen up the salad, getting that glossy finish.
Season to taste with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, remembering that the flavors will deepen as it rests.

Notes

This pasta salad keeps surprisingly well. The flavors actually deepen overnight, allowing the lemon to infuse the pasta and ingredients nicely. When ready to enjoy leftovers, stir gently and add a dash of olive oil or lemon juice to brighten it up.

Nutrition

Serving: 1gCalories: 320kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 12gFat: 12gSaturated Fat: 2gSodium: 400mgFiber: 4gSugar: 2g

Keyword Basil, Family Recipe, Lemon, Parmesan, Pasta Salad

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