Description
Fresh and vibrant Lemon Basil Pasta Salad with Peas combines zesty lemon, aromatic basil, crisp peas, and a tangy natural apple cider vinegar dressing for an easy, refreshing lunch or light dinner. This plant-powered, colorful dish is quick to prepare and perfect for picnics, potlucks, or as a versatile side.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked short pasta (rotini, shells, or farfalle), cooled
- 1 cup fresh basil leaves, roughly chopped
- 1 cup snap peas or garden peas, blanched and cooled
- 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
- 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar (natural)
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- Salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved (optional)
- 1/4 cup plant-based Parmesan cheese, for garnish
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Boil your preferred short pasta in salted water until just al dente. Drain well and rinse briefly with cold water to stop cooking and cool the pasta for the salad. This keeps the pasta firm and able to hold the dressing.
- Prepare the Peas and Basil: If using snap peas, blanch them in boiling water for 1-2 minutes, then plunge into ice water to maintain crunch and vibrant color. Roughly chop the fresh basil leaves to release their aroma and flavor.
- Make the Dressing: Whisk together fresh lemon juice, apple cider vinegar (natural), olive oil, minced garlic, salt, and freshly ground black pepper. The dressing balances tangy brightness with richness and a mild garlic kick.
- Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, toss the cooled pasta with peas, chopped basil, and optional cherry tomatoes. Pour the dressing over and toss gently to coat evenly. Adjust seasoning as needed.
- Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle plant-based Parmesan cheese on top for a nutty richness. Serve chilled or at room temperature for best flavor.
Notes
- Cook pasta al dente to prevent mushiness and maintain a pleasant bite.
- Use freshly squeezed lemon juice for maximum brightness.
- Ensure pasta and peas are cool before mixing with dressing to keep salad fresh.
- Chop basil just before mixing to preserve its flavor and prevent browning.
- Adjust the amount of olive oil gradually to achieve your preferred dressing consistency.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Appetizers
- Method: No cooking / Boiling
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: lemon basil pasta salad, pea pasta salad, fresh pasta salad, plant-based pasta salad, gluten-free pasta salad, summer pasta salad
