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Welcome to a delightful culinary adventure that combines the best of fresh flavors and healthy ingredients! Today, we’re diving into the recipe for a Zesty Lemon Basil Pasta Salad—a vibrant dish that perfectly balances zest and freshness while making an excellent addition to any meal. Whether you're looking for a light lunch option, a side dish for dinner, or a dish to bring to a summer barbecue, this pasta salad delivers on all fronts.

Lemon Basil Pasta Salad - Plant Based RD

Brighten up your meal with this Zesty Lemon Basil Pasta Salad! This refreshing dish combines whole wheat penne pasta, colorful veggies like cherry tomatoes and bell peppers, chickpeas for protein, and a zesty lemon dressing that ties it all together. Perfect for a light lunch or as a side at gatherings, this pasta salad is not only nutritious but also bursting with flavor. Chill it for 30 minutes to enhance the taste, and enjoy every bite!
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Ingredients
  

8 oz whole wheat penne pasta

1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

1 cup cucumber, diced

1 cup bell peppers (mixed colors), diced

1/2 cup red onion, finely chopped

1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped

1/4 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and sliced

1/2 cup cooked chickpeas (canned or homemade)

Zest of 1 lemon

1/4 cup fresh lemon juice

1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil

1 garlic clove, minced

Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions
 

Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the whole wheat penne pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool. Set aside.

    Prepare the Vegetables: In a large mixing bowl, combine the halved cherry tomatoes, diced cucumber, diced bell peppers, finely chopped red onion, chopped fresh basil, sliced Kalamata olives, and cooked chickpeas.

      Make the Dressing: In a separate small bowl, whisk together the lemon zest, fresh lemon juice, extra-virgin olive oil, minced garlic, salt, and pepper until well combined.

        Combine: Add the cooled pasta to the vegetable mixture. Pour the dressing over the pasta salad and toss gently until all ingredients are well coated.

          Chill: Cover the pasta salad and let it chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

            Serve: Give the salad a gentle toss before serving. Garnish with additional fresh basil and lemon slices if desired.

              Prep Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 45 minutes | Servings: 4-6