Lemon Basil Pasta Salad

The Lemon Basil Pasta Salad is the kind of effortless, no-fuss dish that brings a pop of flavor to any table. With its refreshing blend of lemon, creamy Greek yogurt, and fragrant basil, this pasta salad is a light yet satisfying meal on its own or a perfect side for any summer gathering.

Its colorful mix of cherry tomatoes, crisp cucumbers, and al dente pasta not only makes it visually appealing but also layers in texture and freshness. Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue, heading to a picnic, or meal prepping for the week, this dish brings sunshine to every bite.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients:

• 1 (12 oz) bag of Trader Joe’s Organic Fusilli Pasta (or any short pasta)

• 1/2 cup mayonnaise

• 1/2 cup Greek yogurt

• Juice of 1 lemon

• Zest of 1 lemon

• 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil

• 1/3 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese

• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh basil

• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

• Salt and black pepper to taste

• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

• 1/2 cup diced cucumber

• 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped

• 1/3 cup chopped Kalamata olives (optional)

Directions:

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water.

2. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, lemon juice, lemon zest, olive oil, Parmesan cheese, chopped basil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until smooth and creamy.

3. Add the cooled pasta to the dressing and stir to coat well.

4. Gently fold in cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, and olives if using.

5. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Chill for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld.

Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 10 minutes | Total Time: 20 minutes
Kcal: 390 kcal | Servings: 6 servings

The Ultimate Summer Side Dish: Lemon Basil Pasta Salad

When summer rolls in with its sunshine and sizzling heat, the last thing most of us want is to stand over a stove for hours. That’s when simple, flavorful recipes like Lemon Basil Pasta Salad shine their brightest. This refreshing pasta salad is light, tangy, and creamy with just the right amount of zest to awaken your taste buds. It’s one of those dishes that fits any occasion, picnics, backyard barbecues, potlucks, or a quiet weeknight dinner at home. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a busy parent looking for a quick meal, this dish comes together effortlessly and tastes like summer in a bowl.

One of the standout features of this recipe is its balance of creamy and fresh. Instead of relying solely on heavy mayonnaise, this pasta salad uses a blend of mayo and Greek yogurt, giving it a lighter consistency with a subtle tang that complements the lemon juice beautifully. Add in freshly grated Parmesan, chopped basil, and a few simple veggies, and you’ve got a dish that’s not only satisfying but also packed with bright flavors and colors.

Let’s break down what makes this recipe a go-to favorite and how you can tweak it to suit your needs.

The Power of Lemon and Basil

There’s something magical about the combination of lemon and basil especially in warmer months. Lemon brings a clean, citrusy brightness that cuts through the richness of the dressing, while basil adds a fragrant, slightly peppery note that instantly elevates any dish. Together, they create a dynamic flavor profile that feels sophisticated yet simple.

Using lemon juice and zest in this salad enhances both aroma and flavor. The zest, in particular, holds essential oils that intensify the lemony experience. Basil, whether freshly chopped or torn by hand, contributes not only taste but also a pop of vibrant green color.

For those who grow basil in a home garden, this is a fantastic recipe to put your fresh herbs to use. And if you have other herbs available, like mint or parsley, they can also complement the lemon-forward profile beautifully.

Why Use Greek Yogurt?

Greek yogurt has become a staple in health-conscious cooking, and for good reason. It’s protein-rich, lower in fat than mayonnaise, and has a naturally tangy flavor that blends perfectly with citrus. In this pasta salad, Greek yogurt helps lighten the dressing while adding creaminess and body.

The mix of Greek yogurt and mayo gives you the best of both worlds: you keep the traditional richness of a pasta salad dressing but add a healthy, fresh twist. For an even lighter option, you could use plain non-fat Greek yogurt or opt for a dairy-free alternative.

Choosing the Right Pasta

Short, ridged pastas like fusilli, rotini, or penne are ideal for cold pasta salads because their shape holds onto dressing well. Fusilli, in particular, with its spiral twists, captures the creamy lemon basil sauce in every groove, delivering a flavor-packed bite every time.

While traditional wheat pasta works beautifully, you can also experiment with gluten-free options, whole wheat versions, or even protein pasta made from chickpeas or lentils if you’re tailoring this dish to specific dietary needs.

Make sure to cook your pasta just until al dente, overcooked pasta can become mushy once chilled and mixed with dressing.

Add-ins and Variations

One of the joys of pasta salad is how customizable it is. You can keep it simple or load it up with extras based on your taste, dietary needs, or what’s already in your fridge. Here are some tasty additions:

• Grilled Chicken or Shrimp: Add a protein boost for a more complete meal.

• Avocado: Adds creamy texture and healthy fats.

• Artichoke Hearts: For a Mediterranean twist.

• Sun-Dried Tomatoes: Brings intense flavor and chewiness.

• Arugula or Baby Spinach: Fold in just before serving for extra greens.

• Toasted Pine Nuts or Walnuts: Offers a pleasant crunch and nutty depth.

The recipe already includes cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and red onion for freshness and crunch. But feel free to experiment with bell peppers, shredded carrots, or even steamed peas.

Making It Ahead

This salad is a dream for make-ahead preparation. In fact, it tastes even better after it’s had time to chill in the fridge for at least 30 minutes, letting the flavors meld together. You can make it up to a day in advance, which makes it a stress-free addition to any meal plan or event menu.

If making ahead, reserve a little bit of dressing separately and mix it in just before serving. This helps revive the creaminess, as pasta tends to absorb liquid as it sits.

A Crowd-Pleaser for All Occasions

What makes this dish truly versatile is its ability to fit into almost any type of gathering. Need a side for grilled meats? Done. Want a vegetarian main dish for a summer lunch? You got it. Need something portable for a picnic or school lunch? This checks every box.

It’s also a fantastic way to encourage kids (and picky eaters of all ages) to enjoy veggies and try new flavors. The familiar pasta base makes it approachable, while the bright dressing and colorful ingredients make it visually exciting.

Storage Tips

This salad stores beautifully in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. If you plan to serve leftovers, just give it a good stir and maybe an extra splash of lemon juice or olive oil to refresh it. Avoid freezing, as the texture of the pasta and the dairy-based dressing doesn’t hold up well after thawing.

Perfect Pairings

Here are a few ideas for what to serve alongside your Lemon Basil Pasta Salad:

• Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken

• Garlic Butter Shrimp Skewers

• Fresh Fruit Platter

• Lemonade or Iced Tea with Mint

• Crusty Baguette or Garlic Bread

If you’re serving this at a larger meal or picnic, it pairs well with other cold salads like coleslaw, chickpea salad, or watermelon feta salad.

Nutritional Benefits

Let’s not overlook the health perks of this dish. You’re getting:

• Healthy fats from olive oil and Greek yogurt

• Fiber and vitamins from fresh vegetables

• Calcium and protein from Parmesan cheese

• Immune-boosting properties from lemon juice

It’s a filling and balanced dish that doesn’t weigh you down, perfect for warm-weather dining or post-workout refueling.

Conclusion

Lemon Basil Pasta Salad isn’t just another side dish, it’s a fresh, feel-good recipe that delivers flavor, flexibility, and nourishment in one beautiful bowl. Whether you serve it as part of a large spread or enjoy it as a light meal on its own, it’s guaranteed to brighten your table and satisfy your cravings.

With only a handful of ingredients and minimal prep time, it proves that sometimes the simplest combinations yield the most impressive results. So, the next time you’re looking for a refreshing dish that wows guest and makes your weeknight routine a little easier, this Lemon Basil Pasta Salad is your new go-to.