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Lemon Basil Pasta Salad

Lemon Basil Pasta Salad: A Refreshing Vegan Treat

This Lemon Basil Pasta Salad is a delightful, dairy-free embrace of summer—easy to whip up and bursting with fresh, vibrant flavors.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Resting Time 10 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Salad
Cuisine: Vegan
Calories: 250

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta
  • 2 cups Orecchiette or favorite pasta or gluten-free option
For the Herbs
  • 1 cup Fresh Basil whole leaves for dressing
  • 1/2 cup Fresh Parsley finely chopped
For the Creamy Base
  • 1 cup Plain Unsweetened Plant-Based Yogurt such as Forager Project or Silk
For the Zesty Flavor
  • 1 large Fresh Lemon juiced and caramelized halves
  • 1 tablespoon Miso Paste or nutritional yeast for a different flavor
For the Crunch
  • 1 medium Zucchini sliced
  • 1/2 medium Red Onion or shallots/yellow onion
For the Magical Touch
  • 1 cup Marinated Artichoke Hearts or sun-dried tomatoes/roasted red peppers
  • 2 cups Fresh Spinach or arugula

Equipment

  • large pot
  • skillet
  • Mixing Bowl
  • Blender

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Begin by slicing the zucchini into thin rounds and placing them in a bowl. Sprinkle lightly with salt and let them sit for 5-10 minutes to draw out moisture. Pat dry with paper towels.
  2. In a large pot, bring salted water to a rolling boil. Add Orecchiette and cook according to package instructions until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Drain and rinse under cold water.
  3. Heat a tablespoon of oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced red onion and sauté for 2-3 minutes until translucent. Add zucchini and halved lemons, caramelizing for 3-6 minutes until tender.
  4. In a mixing bowl, combine cooled pasta, sautéed onions, warm zucchini, spinach, and marinated artichoke hearts. Squeeze the juice from the caramelized lemon into the bowl.
  5. In a blender, combine basil, parsley, lemon zest, garlic, pepitas, yogurt, miso paste, olive oil, remaining lemon juice, and salt. Blend until smooth and creamy.
  6. Pour half of the dressing over the salad mixture and toss gently. Adjust seasoning as needed, reserving remaining dressing for serving.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 250kcalCarbohydrates: 40gProtein: 6gFat: 10gSaturated Fat: 1gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 7gSodium: 300mgPotassium: 500mgFiber: 6gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 30IUVitamin C: 60mgCalcium: 10mgIron: 15mg

Notes

For best flavor, use fresh herbs and ensure the pasta is cooked al dente. The salad holds well in the fridge for up to 4-5 days and is great for meal prep.

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