Description
Lemon Basil Pasta Salad with Peas combines zesty lemon, fresh basil, and sweet peas with tender pasta and a tangy dressing for a refreshing, plant-based meal or side dish perfect for warm days or anytime you want a bright, wholesome bite.
Ingredients
Scale
Pasta and Vegetables
- 2 cups short pasta (rotini or penne)
- 1 cup green peas (fresh or frozen)
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil leaves
- 1/4 cup chopped scallions
Dressing
- 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 1 teaspoon vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural)
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
Optional Add-ins and Variations
- Grilled chicken strips or sautéed shrimp (for protein boost)
- Crumbled plant-based feta or shredded plant-based parmesan
- Toasted pine nuts or slivered almonds
- Edamame or blanched asparagus tips instead of peas
- Fresh mint or parsley mixed with basil
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Boil the pasta in salted water until just tender following package instructions for al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process and prevent mushiness.
- Prepare the Peas and Herbs: If using fresh peas, blanch them in boiling water for 2 minutes, then transfer to cold water for bright color and snap. Finely chop the fresh basil and scallions to release their aroma.
- Make the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together lemon juice, extra virgin olive oil, minced garlic, vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural), salt, and pepper until combined and emulsified.
- Toss Everything Together: In a large bowl, combine the cooled pasta, peas, chopped basil, and scallions. Pour the dressing over the mixture and toss gently but thoroughly to coat evenly.
- Chill and Serve: Refrigerate the salad for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld. Garnish with extra fresh basil or torn mint and a light drizzle of olive oil before serving.
Notes
- Cook pasta al dente to preserve texture and prevent sogginess.
- Use fresh lemon juice for the brightest flavor.
- Toss pasta with dressing while pasta is still slightly warm for better absorption.
- Chill the salad before serving to enhance flavor blending and refreshment.
- Adjust salt and pepper seasoning just before serving to taste.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Appetizers
- Method: Boiling and Mixing
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: lemon basil pasta salad, pea pasta salad, vegan pasta salad, plant-based salad, quick pasta salad, summer salad, fresh herb salad
