Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This pasta salad is incredibly simple yet packed with flavor. The lemon-basil vinaigrette offers a fresh and zesty taste that pairs perfectly with the creamy parmesan and tender pasta. Whether you’re preparing it for a picnic, a barbecue, or as a quick meal, this salad is versatile, light, and always a crowd-pleaser.

Ingredients

For the pasta salad:

1 box gemelli pasta (or your favorite type of short pasta)
½ cup parmesan cheese, shredded
¼ cup fresh basil, sliced thin
Optional toppings: lemon zest, extra parmesan cheese & sliced fresh basil

For the lemon-basil vinaigrette:

¼ cup lemon juice
¼ cup olive oil
2 garlic cloves
2 Tbsp fresh basil, sliced thin
Pepper, to taste

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Cook the pasta according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside to cool slightly.
In a small bowl, whisk together the lemon juice, olive oil, minced garlic, basil, and pepper. Adjust the seasoning to your taste.
In a large bowl, combine the cooled pasta, shredded parmesan, and thinly sliced basil.
Pour the lemon-basil vinaigrette over the pasta mixture and toss to combine.
If desired, top with lemon zest, extra parmesan cheese, and fresh basil slices for added flavor.
Chill the pasta salad in the fridge for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld together.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4-6
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 10 minutes
Total time: 25 minutes (plus chilling time)

Variations

For added protein, include grilled chicken or shrimp.
Substitute the gemelli pasta with other types of short pasta like rotini, fusilli, or penne.
Add vegetables like cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, or olives to enhance the salad’s freshness.
For a vegan version, omit the parmesan cheese and use a dairy-free alternative.
Try adding a teaspoon of honey to the vinaigrette for a touch of sweetness.

Storage/Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
The salad is best served cold, so there’s no need to reheat. Just give it a quick toss before serving.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of pasta for this salad?

Yes! Feel free to use any short pasta shape you prefer, like rotini, penne, or fusilli.

2. How long can I store this pasta salad?

You can store this pasta salad in the fridge for up to 3 days for the best flavor.

3. Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes! In fact, the flavors develop even more if you let it chill for at least 30 minutes before serving.

4. Can I use dried basil instead of fresh basil?

Fresh basil is ideal for this recipe, but you can substitute dried basil in a pinch. Use about 1 teaspoon of dried basil for every tablespoon of fresh basil.

5. Can I add meat to this pasta salad?

Yes! Grilled chicken, shrimp would be great additions to make this a heartier dish.

6. How do I make this recipe gluten-free?

To make it gluten-free, simply use gluten-free pasta in place of the regular pasta.

7. Is there a substitute for lemon juice in the vinaigrette?

If you don’t have lemon juice, you can use white wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar as a substitute, though it will slightly change the flavor.

8. Can I use pre-shredded parmesan cheese?

Yes, but fresh-shredded parmesan will give the salad a creamier texture and richer flavor.

9. Can I skip the garlic in the vinaigrette?

You can skip the garlic if you prefer a milder flavor, but it adds a great depth to the dressing.

10. How can I make this pasta salad spicy?

For a spicy kick, add some red pepper flakes to the vinaigrette or mix in a diced jalapeño for some heat.

Conclusion

This Easy Lemon Basil Pasta Salad is a refreshing and simple dish that’s full of flavor. With its fresh basil, tangy lemon vinaigrette, and creamy parmesan, it’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re serving it at a barbecue or enjoying it as a light meal, this pasta salad will be a hit!

Easy Lemon Basil Pasta Salad