Go Back
Imagine a colorful bowl filled with al dente pasta, crisp vegetables, and fragrant herbs, all tossed together in a zesty lemon dressing. This pasta salad embodies the concept of “freshness” in every bite. The bright flavors awaken your palate, while the textures create a delightful experience that is both satisfying and invigorating.

Lemon Basil Pasta Salad - Plant Based RD

Brighten up your meal with this zesty lemon basil pasta salad! Made with whole grain pasta, fresh veggies, and a tangy lemon dressing, it's a delicious and healthy option for any occasion. Packed with cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red bell pepper, olives, and chickpeas, this salad is not only vibrant but also satisfying. Perfect for picnics, potlucks, or a quick lunch, it can be served cold or at room temperature. Enjoy a refreshing taste of summer in every bite!
Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Ingredients
  

8 oz whole grain pasta (fusilli or penne works well)

1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

1 cucumber, diced

1 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped

½ cup red bell pepper, diced

½ cup red onion, finely chopped

½ cup olives (green or black), sliced

¼ cup pine nuts, toasted

½ cup chickpeas, rinsed and drained

Juice of 2 lemons

2 tablespoons olive oil

1 tablespoon maple syrup or agave nectar

Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions
 

Cook the Pasta:

    - In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the whole grain pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process.

      Prepare the Veggies:

        - While the pasta is cooking, prepare the vegetables. Halve the cherry tomatoes, dice the cucumber and red bell pepper, and finely chop the red onion.

          Make the Dressing:

            - In a small bowl, whisk together the lemon juice, olive oil, maple syrup, salt, and pepper until well combined.

              Combine Ingredients:

                - In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red bell pepper, red onion, olives, chickpeas, and fresh basil.

                  Dress the Salad:

                    - Pour the dressing over the pasta salad and toss gently to combine, ensuring everything is well coated with the dressing.

                      Add Pine Nuts:

                        - Sprinkle the toasted pine nuts on top and give the salad one final gentle toss.

                          Chill & Serve:

                            - For best flavor, let the salad chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together beautifully. Serve cold or at room temperature.

                              Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 15 mins | 45 mins | 4-6 servings