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Lemon Basil Pasta Salad

Zesty Lemon Basil Pasta Salad That Shines Brightly

Refreshing Vegan Lemon Basil Pasta Salad featuring zesty flavors and customizable veggies, perfect for summer gatherings.
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Salads
Cuisine: Vegan
Calories: 250

Ingredients
  

For the Salad
  • 8 oz Pasta Use your favorite shape or opt for gluten-free
  • 1 cup Fresh Basil Mixed with parsley for enhanced flavor
  • 1 medium Zucchini Can substitute with summer squash or roasted broccoli
  • 1 medium Red Onion Shallots or yellow onion can be used as replacements
  • 1 cup Artichoke Hearts Marinated preferred, sun-dried tomatoes as an alternative
  • 2 cups Fresh Spinach Arugula can be a spicier alternative
For the Dressing
  • 1 cup Plain Unsweetened Plant-Based Yogurt Can replace with nutritional yeast
  • 1 large Fresh Lemon Use both zest and juice for maximum flavor
  • 2 tbsp Miso Paste Nutritional yeast can substitute for a cheesy note

Equipment

  • Large pot
  • Skillet
  • Mixing Bowl
  • blender
  • Colander

Method
 

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Lemon Basil Pasta Salad
  1. Prepare Zucchini: Slice zucchini into thin half-moons, sprinkle with salt, let sit for 10 minutes, then pat dry.
  2. Cook Pasta: Boil salted water, add pasta, cook until al dente (8-10 minutes), drain, and rinse under cold water.
  3. Sauté Onions: Heat olive oil in a skillet, add red onion, sauté for 3-4 minutes until soft, then transfer to mixing bowl.
  4. Caramelize Vegetables: In the same skillet, add prepared zucchini and cut lemons, cook for 5-6 minutes until browned and charred, then transfer to mixing bowl.
  5. Blend Dressing: In a blender, combine basil, parsley, lemon zest, garlic, yogurt, miso, and olive oil, blend until creamy.
  6. Combine Salad: Pour dressing over pasta and vegetables, toss gently to coat, taste and adjust seasoning before serving.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 250kcalCarbohydrates: 35gProtein: 8gFat: 10gSaturated Fat: 2gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 6gSodium: 200mgPotassium: 400mgFiber: 5gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 1200IUVitamin C: 30mgCalcium: 60mgIron: 2mg

Notes

Store in an airtight container for up to 4-5 days. Add extra fresh spinach or herbs before serving for freshness.

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