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Lemon Basil Arugula Pasta Salad Recipe

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4.3 from 9 reviews

A refreshing and vibrant Lemon Basil Arugula Pasta Salad that combines peppery arugula, zesty lemon basil dressing, crunchy walnuts, and tender Gemelli pasta. This quick and easy recipe is perfect for a light lunch or a side dish, ready in just 15 minutes and packed with bright, fresh flavors.

Ingredients

Dressing

  • ⅓ cup olive oil
  • 3 tablespoons lemon juice
  • 3 tablespoons chopped basil (or 1 tbsp dried basil)
  • 2 tablespoons honey (or more to taste)
  • ¼ teaspoon salt
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper
  • ⅛ teaspoon red pepper flakes

Salad

  • 1 5-ounce bag baby arugula
  • 10 ounces Gemelli pasta (or farfalle, fusilli, etc.)
  • ½ cup chopped walnuts (or almonds/pine nuts)
  • Shaved parmesan (for topping)

Instructions

  1. Cook Pasta: Bring a large pot of water to a boil and generously salt the water. Add the Gemelli pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente. Drain the pasta and allow it to cool to room temperature.
  2. Prepare Dressing: In a mason jar, combine olive oil, lemon juice, chopped basil, honey, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes. Close the jar with a lid and shake vigorously until well combined. Taste and adjust sweetness or saltiness by adding more honey or salt if desired.
  3. Assemble Salad: In a large salad bowl, combine the cooled pasta with baby arugula and chopped walnuts. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss thoroughly to coat all ingredients evenly.
  4. Finish and Serve: Top the salad with shaved parmesan cheese. Taste and season with additional salt and pepper as needed. Serve immediately for the freshest taste.

Notes

  • Allowing the pasta to cool to room temperature ensures the arugula doesn’t wilt when mixed.
  • Substitute walnuts with almonds or pine nuts based on your preference.
  • Adjust the honey in the dressing to balance the lemon’s acidity to your liking.
  • This salad is best served fresh but can be stored in the fridge for up to 1 day; toss before serving.

Find it online: https://yumntasty.com/lemon-basil-arugula-pasta-salad-recipe/