Description

This Creamy Lemon Parmesan Pasta Salad brings together bright lemon zest, smoky plant-based bacon, and rich plant-based Parmesan cheese for a satisfying and refreshing dish. Perfect for meal prep, picnics, or as a delightful side, it balances creamy dressing with fresh herbs and perfectly cooked pasta for a light yet flavorful experience.

Ingredients

Scale

Pasta and Protein

2 cups cooked short pasta (rotini or penne), cooled
4 slices smoked plant-based bacon, crisped and chopped

Cheese

1/2 cup plant-based Parmesan cheese, grated

Dressing

1/3 cup plant-based mayonnaise
3 tablespoons freshly squeezed natural lemon juice
1 teaspoon minced garlic
2 tablespoons natural olive oil
Salt, to taste
Black pepper, to taste

Fresh Herbs

2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

Instructions

Cook and cool the pasta: Boil your chosen pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain well and rinse under cold water to stop cooking and cool it down, helping the salad stay light and fresh.
Prepare smoked plant-based bacon: While the pasta cooks, crisp up the smoked plant-based bacon in a non-stick pan over medium heat until golden and slightly crunchy. Set aside on paper towels to drain excess fat, then chop into bite-sized pieces.
Make the dressing: In a medium bowl, whisk together plant-based mayonnaise, freshly squeezed natural lemon juice, minced garlic, olive oil, salt, and black pepper until smooth and creamy. Adjust seasoning to achieve the perfect balance of tang and richness.
Combine all ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, toss together the cooled pasta, chopped smoked plant-based bacon, plant-based Parmesan cheese, and finely chopped parsley. Pour the dressing over and mix gently until every piece is coated with creamy lemon goodness.
Chill and serve: Cover the salad and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. Serve chilled or at room temperature for the freshest taste.

Notes

Use freshly squeezed lemon juice for the most vibrant flavor.
Cook pasta al dente so it holds texture well after chilling.
Chilling the salad enhances flavor blending and freshness.
Toast plant-based bacon until crisp for a great contrast with creamy dressing.
Adjust salt gradually because plant-based Parmesan cheese adds saltiness.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Category: Appetizers
Method: No baking
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 cup
Calories: 320
Sugar: 2g
Sodium: 450mg
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Unsaturated Fat: 14g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 30g
Fiber: 3g
Protein: 8g
Cholesterol: 0mg

Keywords: Creamy lemon pasta salad, plant-based Parmesan, smoked plant-based bacon, refreshing pasta salad, lemon dressing pasta