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Lemon Basil Pasta Salad

Lemon Basil Pasta Salad: A Refreshing Summer Delight

A quick and zesty Lemon Basil Pasta Salad perfect for summer, packed with fresh flavors and wholesome ingredients.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Chilling Time 30 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Salads
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Calories: 250

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta
  • 8 ounces Pasta Use your favorite type; gluten-free option available.
For the Dressing
  • 1 cup Plant-Based Yogurt Opt for Forager Project or Silk's Soy yogurt.
  • 1 whole Fresh Lemon Vital for brightening up the flavors.
  • 1 tablespoon Miso Paste Nutritional yeast can serve as a substitute.
For the Vegetables
  • 1 cup Zucchini Feel free to use summer squash.
  • 2 cups Spinach Arugula is a great alternative.
  • 1 cup Marinated Artichoke Hearts Can exchange for sun-dried tomatoes.
  • 1/2 medium Red Onion Shallots or yellow onion can be used.
For the Herbs
  • 1/2 cup Basil Feel free to mix in other fresh herbs.
  • 1/4 cup Parsley Cilantro or dill can also substitute.

Equipment

  • large pot
  • Skillet
  • blender
  • Mixing bowl

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Start by washing your zucchini and slicing it into thin rounds. Sprinkle the slices with salt and let them sit for about 5 to 10 minutes.
  2. In a large pot, bring salted water to a rolling boil. Add your favorite pasta and cook until al dente, typically around 8 to 10 minutes. Drain and rinse under cold water.
  3. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta with fresh spinach and marinated artichoke hearts. Gently fold until evenly distributed.
  4. Heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add finely chopped red onion and sauté until translucent, about 3 to 4 minutes.
  5. In the same skillet, add zucchini slices and lemon halves, sear for about 3 to 4 minutes until golden brown. Add to the mixing bowl.
  6. To create the dressing, blend fresh basil, parsley, lemon zest, garlic, pepitas, plant-based yogurt, miso paste, lemon juice, and salt until smooth.
  7. Drizzle half of the creamy dressing over the pasta and vegetable mixture. Toss gently to coat. Adjust seasoning as desired.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 250kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 8gFat: 10gSaturated Fat: 1gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 6gSodium: 200mgPotassium: 400mgFiber: 5gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 1000IUVitamin C: 30mgCalcium: 100mgIron: 2mg

Notes

For maximum flavor, let the assembled salad chill in the fridge for at least 30 minutes before serving.

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