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Lemon Basil Parmesan Pasta Salad

Lemon Basil Parmesan Pasta Salad: A Zesty Summer Delight

Lemon Basil Parmesan Pasta Salad is a refreshing summer dish that combines fresh basil, arugula, and creamy parmesan, perfect for any gathering.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 12 minutes
Cooling Time 5 minutes
Total Time 32 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Salad
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 350

Ingredients
  

For the Vinaigrette
  • 2 cloves Fresh Garlic Minced
  • 1 teaspoon Kosher Salt
  • ¼ teaspoon Black Pepper
  • 1 whole Lemon Zest
  • ¼ cup Fresh Lemon Juice Fresh is preferred
  • 2 tablespoons White Balsamic Vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon Mustard
  • ½ cup Extra Virgin Olive Oil
For the Salad
  • 1 lb Bowtie Pasta Any small pasta can substitute
  • 1 teaspoon Fine Sea Salt For pasta water
  • cup Pine Nuts Watch when toasting
  • 2 handfuls Baby Arugula
  • cup Fresh Parmesan Cheese Freshly grated for best results
  • ¼ cup Fresh Basil Leaves Adjust to taste

Equipment

  • Large pot
  • skillet
  • mixing bowl
  • Jar for vinaigrette
  • tongs

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. In a jar, combine minced garlic, kosher salt, black pepper, lemon zest, fresh lemon juice, white balsamic vinegar, and Dijon mustard. Gradually whisk in extra virgin olive oil until emulsified.
  2. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil, add bowtie pasta, and cook according to package instructions (about 10-12 minutes) until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water.
  3. In a skillet over medium heat, toast pine nuts for 5-7 minutes until fragrant and golden brown.
  4. In a large mixing bowl, combine cooled pasta, arugula, parmesan cheese, and cooled toasted pine nuts. Fold in fresh basil leaves.
  5. Shake the vinaigrette and drizzle over the salad ingredients. Toss gently and season with additional salt and pepper.
  6. Transfer to a serving bowl, garnish with extra basil or lemon slices, and enjoy fresh.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 10gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 3gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 10mgSodium: 200mgPotassium: 300mgFiber: 3gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 15IUVitamin C: 25mgCalcium: 15mgIron: 10mg

Notes

Rinse pasta after cooking to prevent sticking. Use fresh ingredients for best flavor. Store salad and dressing separately until serving.

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