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As the warm months roll in, the appeal of fresh, vibrant dishes becomes irresistible. Pasta salads, with their delightful mix of flavors and textures, stand out as perfect companions for summer gatherings and picnics. Among the myriad of options, the Zesty Lemon Basil Pasta Salad shines brightly, offering a refreshing twist that tantalizes the taste buds. This dish combines the lively zest of lemons with the aromatic essence of fresh basil, creating a flavor profile that is both uplifting and satisfying.

Cold Lemon Basil Pasta

Discover the vibrant flavors of summer with this Zesty Lemon Basil Pasta Salad! This refreshing dish combines the zesty brightness of lemons and aromatic basil, making it perfect for picnics and gatherings. Packed with nutritious ingredients like whole grain pasta, cherry tomatoes, and fresh herbs, it's not just delicious but also a healthy choice. Easy to prepare and even better the next day, this pasta salad is sure to elevate your meals all season long. Perfect as a side or main dish, it's a delightful addition to any table. Enjoy a burst of flavor with every bite!
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Ingredients
  

12 oz spaghetti or your choice of pasta

1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil

Zest and juice of 2 large lemons

1/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese

1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

1 cup fresh basil leaves, torn into bite-sized pieces

1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

Salt and pepper to taste

1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for added heat)

1/4 cup pine nuts, toasted for extra crunch

Instructions
 

Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a vigorous boil over high heat. Add the spaghetti and cook according to the package instructions until al dente, usually about 8-10 minutes. Once cooked, drain the pasta and rinse it under cold running water to halt the cooking process. Set the pasta aside to cool completely.

    Prepare the Dressing: In a medium-sized bowl, combine the extra-virgin olive oil, lemon zest, freshly squeezed lemon juice, garlic powder, salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Whisk together until well blended. Taste and adjust the seasoning to your preference.

      Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, add the cooled pasta, halved cherry tomatoes, and torn basil leaves. Also, include the toasted pine nuts for an added crunch. Drizzle the dressing over the pasta mixture and gently toss everything together using tongs or a large spatula until the pasta and vegetables are evenly coated with the dressing.

        Add Cheese and Flavors: Sprinkle the freshly grated Parmesan cheese on top of the pasta salad. Toss again carefully to distribute the cheese throughout. If you enjoy a bit of spice, add the red pepper flakes at this stage and give it one last gentle mix.

          Chill: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or transfer the salad to an airtight container. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and enhance the overall taste.

            Serve: Before serving, give the salad a gentle toss to redistribute the dressing. Taste once more and adjust the seasoning with extra salt or pepper if needed. Serve chilled as a refreshing summer dish or as a delightful side for barbecues!

              Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 15 minutes | 1 hour (including chilling time) | Serves 4-6

                Presentation Tips: Serve the salad in a large, shallow bowl for an inviting display. Garnish with additional basil leaves and a sprinkle of Parmesan for a visually appealing touch!