Basil Lemon Pasta Salad
Refreshing Basil Lemon Pasta Salad That’ll Make You Feel Like Summer
Ever had one of those days where it’s super hot outside, and you don’t wanna turn on the oven? Like, you just wanna throw something together that’s fresh and zesty, right? Well, lemme tell ya about this Basil Lemon Pasta Salad. 🌿🍋 It’s the perfect no-cook meal!

Okay, Let’s Talk Ingredients
So, picture this: I’m at the grocery store, and I’m totally vibing. I grab a pound of campanelle pasta (seriously, it’s the cutest shape!). Then, I see the white apple cider vinegar and I’m like, “Yes, please!” 🛒 A quick stop for some extra virgin olive oil, fresh basil (grabbed a big ol’ bunch), lemon juice (don’t skimp), and pine nuts—oh, and of course, parmesan for that cheesy goodness.
Just visualize me throwing all this stuff in the cart like a pasta ninja. 😂
Here’s what you’ll need:
– 1 pound pasta
– ¼ cup white apple cider vinegar
– ¼ cup extra virgin olive oil
– 3 tablespoons lemon juice
– Black pepper (8 cracks, or to taste)
– ⅓ cup pine nuts
– ½ cup parmesan (shavings)
– ¼ cup fresh basil (sliced thin)
So Here’s Why I Make This Constantly
Okay, so here’s the deal: this salad reminds me of sun-soaked picnics with my friends. We’d just sit around, munching on this pasta salad, laughing til we cried. One time, I made it for a BBQ, and my friend Jess said it was like a party in her mouth. 😂 (No pressure, right?)
Also, it’s super easy to make. Like, I’m talking 5 minutes of prep and your pasta is chilling while you sip on some iced tea. It’s my go-to for summer gatherings, potlucks, or even just a solo Netflix binge. Who doesn’t love a good snack while watching reality TV?

The One Trick That Changes Everything
Alright, listen up. The secret to making this pasta salad pop? It’s all in the chilling time! Seriously, refrigerate it for a solid 2 hours before serving. I know it’s hard to wait (trust me, I’ve tried sneaking bites), but the flavors just meld together into this *symphony of deliciousness*.
Don’t Mess This Up (My Top Tips)
1. Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Keep it al dente! Nobody wants mushy pasta, ew.
2. Use Fresh Basil: Like, dried basil is just sad in this recipe. Go fresh or go home!
3. Check the Seasoning: Adjust that black pepper to your liking. I like it spicy, but you do you!
How to Keep Them From Disappearing (Or, How to Store Them)
So, if for some crazy reason you have leftovers (maybe you’re just super full after all that TV you watched), store it in an airtight container in the fridge. It’ll keep for about 3 days, but honestly, I can’t promise it’ll last that long. 😅
If You Liked This, You’ll Probably Like These Too
Okay, if you’re into this vibe, you gotta try:
– Caprese Skewers: So fresh and easy!
– Mediterranean Quinoa Salad: Super grainy goodness!
– Pesto Zucchini Noodles: Healthy, but like, still delish!
What’s your go-to summer dish? I need ideas for my next cookout! 🌞✨
Basil Lemon Pasta Salad
Flavor-packed Basil Lemon Pasta Salad with amazing ingredients and incredible taste! Perfect for any occasion.
5 minutes
12 minutes
17 minutes
Ingredients
- 1 pound pasta ( {shown with campanelle})
Instructions
- In a large pot of salty water, bring noodles to a boil and prepare al dente. Drain and rinse with cold water to shock pasta.
- Meanwhile, combine white apple vinegar vinegar, olive oil, and lemon juice in a jar and shake well.
- In a large bowl toss pasta with dressing and pine nuts. Add fresh cracked pepper, basil and parmesan flakes.
- Refrigerate 2+ hours before serving.