Go Back
To create a delicious Lemon Basil Pasta Salad, understanding the key ingredients is essential. Each component contributes not only to the flavor but also to the nutritional profile of the salad.

Lemon Basil Pasta Salad - Plant Based RD

Brighten your day with this refreshing Lemon Basil Pasta Salad! Packed with whole wheat pasta, juicy cherry tomatoes, crunchy cucumbers, and zesty yellow bell peppers, this dish is a delightful blend of flavors and textures. Tossed in a homemade lemon olive oil dressing and garnished with fresh basil, it's perfect as a light lunch or a side dish at your next gathering. Quick to prepare, this salad is a delicious way to enjoy healthy ingredients. Ready in 30 minutes!
Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Ingredients
  

8 oz whole wheat pasta (fusilli or penne)

1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

1 cup cucumber, diced

1 yellow bell pepper, chopped

1/4 red onion, finely chopped

1 cup fresh basil leaves, torn

1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil

Juice of 2 lemons

Zest of 1 lemon

2 cloves garlic, minced

Salt and pepper, to taste

1/4 cup nutritional yeast (optional, for a cheesy flavor)

Instructions
 

Cook the whole wheat pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process.

    In a large mixing bowl, combine the cherry tomatoes, cucumber, yellow bell pepper, red onion, and torn basil leaves.

      In a separate small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, minced garlic, salt, and pepper until well combined. If using nutritional yeast, add it to the dressing mixture and whisk again.

        Add the cooled pasta to the bowl of vegetables and pour the dressing on top. Toss everything together until the pasta and veggies are evenly coated with the dressing.

          Taste and adjust seasonings if necessary. You can add more salt, pepper, or lemon juice according to your preference.

            Let the pasta salad sit for at least 15 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld. You can also prepare it a few hours in advance and store it in the refrigerator until ready to serve.

              Serve chilled or at room temperature, garnished with extra basil leaves if desired.

                Prep Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 30 minutes | Servings: 4-6