This Lemon Basil Pasta Salad is a fresh, vibrant dish that’s perfect for any occasion. The combination of al dente pasta, zesty lemon, and fragrant basil creates a delightful, light meal or side dish that’s sure to impress. Whether you’re hosting a summer picnic, preparing a quick weeknight dinner, or just craving a flavorful salad, this recipe is both easy to make and full of bright, delicious flavors. Lemon Basil Pasta Salad

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I absolutely love how refreshing and satisfying this pasta salad is. The lemon brings a burst of citrusy goodness, while the basil adds a fresh herbal note that perfectly complements the pasta. It’s a great balance of flavors and textures, from the crunchy vegetables to the creamy dressing. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile and can be adjusted to suit your taste – more or less lemon, a bit of garlic, or even some extra veggies like cherry tomatoes. It’s the ideal dish for warm weather, and it’s so easy to whip up!

Ingredients

1 pound pasta (rotini, penne, or fusilli work well)
1 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
1 lemon (zested and juiced)
1/4 cup olive oil
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup
Salt and pepper, to taste
1/2 cup red onion, finely chopped
1 cup cucumber, diced
1/2 cup bell pepper, diced
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

(Hopefully, you find this helpful: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Begin by cooking the pasta in a large pot of salted water according to the package instructions. Once cooked, drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process and cool the pasta down.
In a small bowl, whisk together the lemon juice, lemon zest, olive oil, Dijon mustard, honey, salt, and pepper until well combined.
In a large bowl, combine the cooled pasta, chopped basil, red onion, cucumber, and bell pepper.
Pour the lemon dressing over the pasta mixture and toss everything together to coat evenly.
If desired, sprinkle some grated Parmesan cheese over the top for added richness.
Chill the pasta salad in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld together.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves about 4-6 people as a side dish. It should take approximately 15-20 minutes to prepare, plus 30 minutes for chilling in the fridge.

Variations

Add protein: For a more filling meal, try adding grilled chicken, shrimp, or even chickpeas to the salad.
Swap pasta types: Feel free to use any pasta you like – gluten-free pasta or whole wheat pasta are great alternatives.
Change up the veggies: You can experiment with different vegetables like cherry tomatoes, avocado, or even roasted vegetables to give the salad a unique twist.
Use different herbs: If you’re not a fan of basil, try substituting with fresh parsley, mint, or oregano.

Storage/Reheating

I find this pasta salad tastes even better after a few hours or overnight, as the flavors have time to develop. It can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Since it’s served cold, there’s no need to reheat it. Just give it a quick toss before serving to redistribute the dressing.

FAQs

How can I make the lemon basil pasta salad vegan?

To make this recipe vegan, simply omit the Parmesan cheese or use a dairy-free cheese substitute. The rest of the recipe is naturally plant-based!

Can I make this pasta salad ahead of time?

Yes, this pasta salad is perfect for making ahead. I like to prepare it a few hours in advance, or even the day before, so the flavors have time to come together.

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Definitely! Any pasta shape works well in this salad, whether it’s spaghetti, penne, fusilli, or rotini. The key is to use a shape that holds the dressing well.

Is this pasta salad gluten-free?

You can easily make this pasta salad gluten-free by using gluten-free pasta. There are plenty of good options available in most grocery stores.

How can I add more flavor to this pasta salad?

To enhance the flavor, try adding a bit of garlic or shallots to the dressing. You could also experiment with a splash of balsamic vinegar for a deeper flavor profile.

Conclusion

This Lemon Basil Pasta Salad is one of those dishes that’s both simple and bursting with flavor. It’s quick to prepare, and it’s perfect for a variety of occasions. I love how fresh and vibrant it is, with the tangy lemon and aromatic basil making each bite refreshing and satisfying. Whether you’re enjoying it at a summer barbecue or bringing it to a potluck, this pasta salad is always a crowd-pleaser.