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Lemon Basil Pasta Salad

Vibrant Lemon Basil Pasta Salad That's No-Mayo Freshness

This Lemon Basil Pasta Salad is a refreshing, no-mayo dish full of vibrant flavors and wholesome ingredients, perfect for warm days.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 11 minutes
Resting Time 10 minutes
Total Time 36 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Salad
Cuisine: Vegan
Calories: 340

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta
  • 2 cups Pasta Choose your favorite shape; gluten-free options are available.
For the Dressing
  • 1 cup Plant-based Yogurt For a creamy base, use brands like Forager Project or Silk’s Soy.
  • 1 Juice of Lemon Fresh lemons are key for optimal flavor.
  • 1 tablespoon Miso Paste Can be swapped with 2 tablespoons of nutritional yeast.
For the Vegetables
  • 1 medium Zucchini Or substitute with summer squash or roasted broccoli.
  • 1 medium Onion Shallots or yellow onion can work as alternatives.
  • 1 can Artichoke Hearts Or swap with sun-dried tomatoes.
  • 2 cups Spinach Arugula offers a peppery alternative.
For the Herbs
  • 1 cup Fresh Basil Imparts a fragrant note to the dish.
  • 1/4 cup Fresh Parsley A great addition for color.

Equipment

  • blender
  • large pot
  • Large Skillet
  • colander
  • Mixing bowl
  • Paper Towel

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Slice the zucchini into thin rounds and sprinkle with salt. Let sit for 15 minutes to draw out excess water. Pat dry before sautéing.
  2. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil, add pasta, and cook according to package instructions for 9-11 minutes until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water.
  3. In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add diced onions and sauté for 5-7 minutes until softened and golden brown. Transfer to a mixing bowl.
  4. In the same skillet, add zucchini rounds and cook for 3-4 minutes until caramelized. Add halved lemons, cut-side down, and cook for 2 more minutes.
  5. Blend basil, parsley, lemon zest, garlic, pepitas, yogurt, and miso in a blender with remaining olive oil and lemon juice until smooth.
  6. In the bowl with sautéed onions, add cooked pasta, sautéed zucchini, and caramelized lemons. Mix in half of the dressing and adjust to taste.
  7. Let the salad sit for 10 minutes to meld flavors. Serve chilled or at room temperature.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 340kcalCarbohydrates: 50gProtein: 12gFat: 10gSaturated Fat: 1gPolyunsaturated Fat: 5gMonounsaturated Fat: 4gSodium: 200mgPotassium: 500mgFiber: 8gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 1800IUVitamin C: 60mgCalcium: 90mgIron: 3mg

Notes

This salad can be customized with seasonal vegetables and stored in the fridge for 4-5 days without losing freshness.

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