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Lemon Basil Pasta Salad

Lemon Basil Pasta Salad: Fresh, Creamy, and Vegan Vibes

This Lemon Basil Pasta Salad is a vibrant, creamy, and vegan dish perfect for meal prep or gatherings, featuring fresh ingredients and no mayo.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Salads
Cuisine: Vegan
Calories: 250

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta
  • 8 ounces Orecchiette pasta or favorite shape, consider gluten-free options
For the Dressing
  • 1 cup plain unsweetened plant-based yogurt like Forager Project or Silk’s Soy yogurt
  • 1 whole lemon fresh, for zest and juice
  • 1 tablespoon miso paste or substitute with 2 tablespoons of nutritional yeast
For the Veggies
  • 1 medium zucchini can swap with summer squash or roasted vegetables
  • 1 medium red onion or substitute with shallots or yellow onion
  • 1 cup artichoke hearts marinated, or substitute with sun-dried tomatoes or roasted red peppers
  • 2 cups fresh spinach or arugula as an alternative
For the Herbs
  • 1 cup fresh basil can adjust to taste
  • 1/2 cup fresh parsley adjust quantity as desired

Equipment

  • skillet
  • Large Pot
  • Blender
  • mixing bowl

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Prepare Zucchini: Slice the zucchini into thin rounds and sprinkle with salt. Let sit for 5-10 minutes to draw out moisture, then pat dry.
  2. Cook Pasta: In a pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Drain and rinse with cold water.
  3. Sauté Onions: In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add diced red onion and sauté for 4-5 minutes until softened.
  4. Caramelize Vegetables: Add zucchini and lemon halves to the skillet, cook for 5-7 minutes until caramelized. Transfer veggies to the mixing bowl.
  5. Blend Dressing: In a blender, combine basil, parsley, lemon zest, garlic, pepitas, yogurt, miso paste, lemon juice, olive oil, and salt. Blend until smooth.
  6. Combine: In the mixing bowl, add cooked pasta and half of the dressing. Toss gently until coated, adjusting with more dressing if needed.

Nutrition

Serving: 1cupCalories: 250kcalCarbohydrates: 35gProtein: 8gFat: 10gSaturated Fat: 1gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 7gSodium: 150mgPotassium: 400mgFiber: 5gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 1000IUVitamin C: 25mgCalcium: 100mgIron: 2mg

Notes

This Lemon Basil Pasta Salad can be customized with various veggies and herbs based on your preferences. Store in an airtight container for up to 4-5 days.

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