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Lemon Basil Pasta Salad with Peas

Lemon Basil Pasta Salad with Peas

  • Author: Michael
  • Total Time: 40 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Diet: Plant-Based

Description

Enjoy a zesty Lemon Basil Pasta Salad with Peas that bursts with fresh flavors, vibrant colors, and delightful textures. This refreshing salad combines tender short pasta, sweet green peas, fragrant basil, and creamy plant-based cheese, all tossed in a bright lemon dressing made with natural ingredients. Perfect for a light lunch, picnic, or a vibrant side dish served chilled or at room temperature.

Ingredients

Scale

Pasta and Vegetables

  • 2 cups short pasta (rotini or penne)
  • 1 cup fresh peas
  • 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, torn

Dressing

  • 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice (natural)
  • 1/3 cup extra virgin olive oil
  • 1 clove garlic, minced (natural)
  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste

Additional Ingredients

  • 1/2 cup plant-based cheese, crumbled
  • 1 teaspoon natural gelling agent

Instructions

  1. Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook until just al dente following package instructions so it remains firm for the salad.
  2. Prepare the Peas and Basil: While the pasta cooks, blanch the fresh peas in boiling water for 1-2 minutes, then immediately plunge into ice water to maintain their vibrant color and crispness. Tear the fresh basil leaves into bite-sized pieces.
  3. Make the Lemon Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the fresh lemon juice (natural), extra virgin olive oil, minced garlic (natural), salt, and pepper until well combined and emulsified.
  4. Combine Ingredients: Drain the cooked pasta thoroughly and return it to the mixing bowl. Toss with the blanched peas, torn basil, plant-based cheese, and lemon dressing. Add the natural gelling agent and gently mix to incorporate without breaking the pasta or crushing the peas.
  5. Chill and Serve: Cover the salad and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld beautifully. Serve chilled or at room temperature for a refreshing, flavorful experience.

Notes

  • Use fresh ingredients such as fresh basil and lemon juice for the brightest flavor.
  • Do not overcook the pasta; keeping it al dente ensures the best texture for the salad.
  • Chilling the salad allows the flavors to develop and intensify.
  • Adjust seasoning after chilling, adding salt or lemon juice as needed.
  • Toss the salad gently to avoid breaking the pasta or crushing the peas.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10 minutes
  • Category: Appetizers
  • Method: Boiling
  • Cuisine: Mediterranean

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 cup
  • Calories: 250
  • Sugar: 3g
  • Sodium: 150mg
  • Fat: 12g
  • Saturated Fat: 2g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 9g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 28g
  • Fiber: 4g
  • Protein: 7g
  • Cholesterol: 0mg

Keywords: Lemon Basil Pasta Salad, Pasta Salad with Peas, Plant-Based Pasta Salad, Fresh Pasta Salad, Vegan Pasta Salad

Find it online: https://classicrecipehub.com/lemon-basil-pasta-salad-with-peas/