Description
Lemon Basil Pasta Salad with Peas is a vibrant and refreshing dish combining tender medium-sized pasta, sweet fresh peas, and fragrant basil leaves tossed in a zesty natural lemon dressing. Perfect for packed lunches, picnics, or light meals, this salad offers a bright burst of flavors, contrasting textures, and colorful presentation that delights both the eyes and palate.
Ingredients
Scale
Pasta and Vegetables
- 2 cups medium-sized pasta (fusilli or penne)
- 1 cup fresh peas
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, roughly chopped
Dressing
- 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice (natural)
- 1/3 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 1 clove garlic, minced (natural)
- 1 tablespoon vegetarian Worcestershire sauce
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
Optional Additions
- 1/4 cup plant-based cheese, crumbled (plant-based)
- Toasted pine nuts or almonds for garnish
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Begin by boiling water in a large pot with a pinch of salt. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cool water to stop the cooking process, then set aside to cool completely.
- Prepare the Lemon Dressing (natural): In a small bowl, whisk together freshly squeezed lemon juice (natural), extra virgin olive oil, minced garlic (natural), and vegetarian Worcestershire sauce. Season with salt and black pepper to taste. This dressing brings a bright zing to the pasta salad.
- Combine and Toss: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta, fresh peas, halved cherry tomatoes, and roughly chopped basil leaves. Pour the lemon dressing (natural) over the salad and toss gently to thoroughly coat all ingredients.
- Finish with Plant-Based Cheese and Garnish: If using, sprinkle crumbled plant-based cheese on top for a creamy and tangy finish. Add extra basil leaves or a sprinkle of freshly ground black pepper for a visually appealing and flavorful presentation.
Notes
- Use fresh basil for the best aroma and flavor.
- Cook pasta just until al dente to avoid mushiness.
- Chill the salad for at least 30 minutes before serving to meld flavors.
- Adjust lemon juice to taste for desired brightness.
- Add peas last for preserving their color and crunch if preferred.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Appetizers
- Method: No-cook
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 1.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: lemon basil pasta salad, pasta salad with peas, vegetarian pasta salad, fresh basil salad, lemon dressing pasta salad, light pasta salad
