LEMON BASIL PASTA SALAD 🍋 | EASY & DELICIOUS

mozzarella balls

🥗Healthier: tofu

💰Cheaper: cubed cheddar

Tofu provides a similar texture with fewer calories, while cheddar is more affordable.

olive oil

🥗Healthier: avocado oil

💰Cheaper: vegetable oil

Avocado oil is healthier with a higher smoke point, while vegetable oil is budget-friendly.

parmesan cheese

🥗Healthier: nutritional yeast

💰Cheaper: grated pecorino

Nutritional yeast is dairy-free, while pecorino offers a similar flavor at a lower price.

fresh basil

🥗Healthier: spinach

💰Cheaper: dried basil

Spinach adds nutrients, while dried basil is a cost-effective alternative.

Cook pasta in heavily salted water until just al dente; rinse in cold water to stop cooking and let dry.

For the dressing, combine 1/4 cup olive oil, juice of 1 lemon (about 3 tbsp), and seasoned rice vinegar in a bowl.

Chop fresh basil into thin strips and add to the dressing.

Taste the pasta to ensure it's cooked to your liking before adding the dressing.

Add the dressing to the pasta and toss to coat evenly.

Add shredded parmesan cheese and a generous amount of black pepper; mix gently.

Optionally, add pine nuts and adjust seasoning if necessary.

Serve with a small wedge of lemon and fresh basil leaves for garnish.

Cooking Techniques

Equipment Needed

Spice Level:

Dietary

Allergens