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–+ servings

Lemon Basil Parmesan Pasta Salad

A delightful medley of flavors that embodies the essence of spring and summer, perfect as a side or main course.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Calories: 250
Ingredients Method Nutrition

Ingredients
  

  • 1 to 2 cloves garlic Grated (2 cloves if small)
  • 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt For seasoning
  • 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper To taste
  • 1 teaspoon lemon zest Adds brightness
  • 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice For acidity
  • 2 tablespoons white balsamic vinegar To enhance flavor
  • 1/2 teaspoon dijon mustard For depth of flavor
  • 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil Richness and smoothness
  • 1 pound bowtie pasta Or other small pasta of choice
  • fine salt For seasoning pasta water
  • 1/3 cup pine nuts Toasted for crunch
  • 2 handfuls baby arugula Freshness and texture
  • 1/3 cup parmesan cheese Freshly grated, plus more for serving
  • 1/4 cup thinly sliced fresh basil leaves Plus more for serving (optional)
  • kosher salt To taste
  • freshly ground black pepper To taste

Method
 

  1. Start by gathering all your ingredients to ensure a smooth cooking process. Grate the garlic and parmesan cheese, slice the fresh basil, and measure out your pine nuts and pasta.
  2. In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil and add the bowtie pasta. Cook according to package instructions until al dente, usually around 8-10 minutes. Drain the pasta and rinse it under cold water to stop the cooking process.
  3. In a dry skillet over medium heat, toast the pine nuts until golden brown, stirring frequently to prevent burning. This step enhances their flavor and adds a delightful crunch to your salad.
  4. In a small bowl, whisk together grated garlic, kosher salt, black pepper, lemon zest, lemon juice, white balsamic vinegar, dijon mustard, and extra virgin olive oil until well combined.
  5. In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked pasta with baby arugula, toasted pine nuts, sliced basil leaves, and grated parmesan cheese. Drizzle the vinaigrette over the top and toss gently until everything is evenly coated.
  6. Taste your salad and adjust seasoning with additional kosher salt and black pepper if needed. Serve chilled or at room temperature with extra parmesan on top for added flavor!

Nutrition

Serving: 1gCalories: 250kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 8gFat: 10gSaturated Fat: 5gCholesterol: 45mgSodium: 200mgFiber: 2gSugar: 15g

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