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+ servings
Lemon Basil Pasta Salad

Lemon Basil Pasta Salad: Fresh, Flavorful, and Simply Vegan

This Lemon Basil Pasta Salad is a vibrant, refreshing dish perfect for warm days, made with fresh vegetables and a creamy vegan dressing.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Chilling Time 30 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Salads
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Calories: 200

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta
  • 2 cups Pasta Any type, gluten-free if desired
For the Dressing
  • 1 cup Plant-based Yogurt Unsweetened varieties like Forager Project
  • 1 juice of Lemon Fresh juice and zest for best flavor
  • 1 tablespoon Miso Paste Adds umami, nutritional yeast can substitute
For the Salad
  • 1 cup Fresh Basil Key for vibrant flavor
  • 1/2 cup Parsley Fresh enhances the taste
  • 1 medium Zucchini Sliced, summer squash or roasted broccoli can substitute
  • 1 medium Red Onion Diced, shallots or yellow onion can be used
  • 1 cup Artichoke Hearts Can be substituted with sun-dried tomatoes
  • 2 cups Fresh Spinach Can use arugula for a peppery taste

Equipment

  • large pot
  • large skillet
  • Mixing Bowl
  • Blender or food processor

Method
 

Preparation Steps
  1. Prep the zucchini by washing and slicing into thin rounds. Sprinkle with salt and let sit for 5-10 minutes, then pat dry.
  2. Cook the pasta in boiling salted water until al dente (8-10 minutes). Drain and rinse under cold water, then combine with spinach and artichoke hearts.
  3. Sauté diced red onion in olive oil until soft (3-5 minutes). Transfer to the mixing bowl with pasta and veggies.
  4. Caramelize the salted zucchini slices in the skillet until golden brown (3-6 minutes), and char half a lemon cut side down.
  5. Blend fresh basil, parsley, lemon zest, garlic, pepitas, yogurt, miso, olive oil, and lemon juice in a blender until smooth. Season with salt.
  6. Pour half the dressing over the pasta mixture and toss gently to combine. Add more dressing if desired just before serving.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 200kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 6gFat: 9gSaturated Fat: 1gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 7gSodium: 200mgPotassium: 450mgFiber: 5gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 600IUVitamin C: 20mgCalcium: 50mgIron: 2mg

Notes

For best flavor, chill the salad for at least 30 minutes before serving. Ingredients like zucchini and spinach may lose texture after freezing; add fresh veggies just before serving for crunch.

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