Description
A vibrant Mediterranean pasta salad with whole-grain pasta, cherry tomatoes, fresh basil, and tangy Parmesan in a bright lemon dressing. Ideal for summer gatherings or quick lunches.
Ingredients
Whole-grain pasta (fusilli, penne, or your choice), 8 oz
Cherry tomatoes, 1 cup halved
Fresh basil, ¼ cup chopped
Grated Parmesan, ¼ cup
Olive oil, ¼ cup
Lemon juice, 2 tablespoons
Lemon zest, 1 teaspoon
Garlic, 1 clove minced
Instructions
Cook pasta according to package instructions, drain, and let cool.
Heat olive oil in a small bowl, then whisk in lemon juice, zest, and minced garlic.
In a large bowl, toss cooled pasta with cherry tomatoes, basil, Parmesan, and dressing.
Refrigerate for 10–15 minutes to let flavors meld before serving.
Notes
Use gluten-free pasta for dietary restrictions.
Swap cherry tomatoes with grape tomatoes if preferred.
Add optional proteins like grilled chicken or chickpeas for extra heartiness.
Garnish with extra lemon zest for a brighter flavor.
- Prep Time: 15
- Cook Time: 10
- Category: Summer Salad Recipes
- Method: Tossing
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 650mg
- Fat: 16g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 15mg