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Lemon Basil Pasta Salad

Lemon Basil Pasta Salad: A Fresh Vegan Delight Awaits

A vibrant Lemon Basil Pasta Salad that’s a perfect vegan dish for summer gatherings.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Salad
Cuisine: Vegan
Calories: 250

Ingredients
  

For the Salad
  • 8 oz Pasta Substitute with gluten-free pasta if desired.
  • 1 cup Basil Fresh, or substitute with cilantro or dill.
  • 1/2 cup Parsley
  • 1 cup Zucchini Slice thinly; may replace with summer squash.
  • 1/2 cup Red Onion Substitute with shallots or yellow onion.
  • 1 cup Artichoke Hearts Can be replaced with sun-dried tomatoes.
  • 2 cups Spinach Arugula can be substituted for a peppery taste.
For the Dressing
  • 1/2 cup Plain Unsweetened Vegan Yogurt Forager Project or Silk Soy yogurt suggested.
  • 1 Juice of Lemon Use fresh for best flavor.
  • 2 tbsp Miso Paste Nutritional yeast is a good alternative.
  • 1/4 cup Pepitas Can substitute with pumpkin seeds.
  • 2 tbsp Olive Oil High-quality extra virgin preferred.

Equipment

  • Large pot
  • Skillet
  • Colander
  • food processor

Method
 

Steps
  1. Slice the zucchini into thin rounds, sprinkle with salt, and let sit in a colander for 5-10 minutes. Pat dry.
  2. Bring a large pot of water to a rolling boil with salt. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente, usually 8-10 minutes. Drain and rinse under cold water.
  3. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Sauté diced red onion for 4-5 minutes until soft and translucent. Transfer to a mixing bowl.
  4. Increase heat to medium-high. Add zucchini slices and cut lemon halves, cooking for 4-6 minutes until golden brown.
  5. In the mixing bowl, combine cooked pasta, spinach, and artichoke hearts. Toss to mix.
  6. Blend dressing ingredients in a food processor until smooth and creamy, about 30-45 seconds.
  7. Pour half of the dressing over the salad mixture and toss. Adjust seasoning if necessary. Serve chilled or at room temperature.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 250kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 8gFat: 12gSaturated Fat: 1gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gSodium: 300mgPotassium: 500mgFiber: 5gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 1500IUVitamin C: 25mgCalcium: 50mgIron: 2mg

Notes

For best results, use fresh ingredients and adjust the dressing to taste. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container for up to 4-5 days.

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