Lemon Basil Pasta Salad

A refreshing, quick, and nutritious pasta salad that's perfect for meal prep, gatherings, or weeknight dinners, bringing together the vibrant flavors of basil, cherry tomatoes, and mozzarella.

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Prep Time 20

Cook Time 10

Total Time 30

Servings: 4 servings

Course: Salad, Side Dish

Cuisine: Italian

Calories: 350

Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

8 oz pasta of your choice Opt for whole grain for added fiber.
1 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped Freshly chopped for vibrant flavor and aroma.
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved Sweet and juicy, a delightful contrast in texture.
1/2 cup mozzarella balls, halved Creamy richness; can swap for vegan cheese if desired.

Dressing

1/4 cup olive oil Provides healthy fats—use extra virgin for flavor.
2 tablespoons lemon juice Freshly squeezed for brightness.
1 clove garlic, minced Adds depth; use roasted garlic for a milder flavor.
salt and pepper to taste Essential for enhancing all the flavors.

Method

Preparation

Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and let it cool for about 5-10 minutes.
In a large bowl, combine the cooled pasta, chopped basil, halved cherry tomatoes, and mozzarella balls. Stir gently to mix.

Dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, fresh lemon juice, minced garlic, salt, and pepper until emulsified.
Pour the dressing over the pasta mixture and toss gently to combine.

Serving

You can serve the salad immediately or refrigerate it for an hour to allow flavors to meld.

Notes

This salad is best enjoyed chilled. Store in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. For freezing, omit fresh basil and mozzarella before freezing and add back fresh ingredients after thawing.