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Lemon Basil Pasta Salad

Lemon Basil Pasta Salad: A Fresh Vegan Summer Delight

A refreshing Lemon Basil Pasta Salad that's perfect for summer picnics and meal prep.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Cooling Time 5 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Salads
Cuisine: Mediterranean, Vegan
Calories: 250

Ingredients
  

For the Salad
  • 8 oz Pasta Substitute with gluten-free chickpea or lentil pasta if desired.
  • 1 cup Basil Can be substituted with cilantro or dill.
  • 1/2 cup Parsley Enhances the fresh taste.
  • 1 medium Zucchini Replace with summer squash or roasted broccoli for variation.
  • 1 medium Red Onion Can be swapped with shallots or yellow onion.
  • 1 cup Artichoke Hearts Can omit or use sun-dried tomatoes as an alternative.
  • 2 cups Spinach Or substitute with arugula.
For the Dressing
  • 1 cup Plain Unsweetened Vegan Yogurt Forager Project or Silk Soy yogurt recommended.
  • 1 Lemon Always use fresh for optimal flavor.
  • 2 tbsp Miso Paste Nutritional yeast makes a good alternative.
  • 2 tbsp Olive Oil Using high-quality extra virgin is ideal.
For the Crunch
  • 1/4 cup Pepitas Substitute with pumpkin seeds if needed.

Equipment

  • large pot
  • Skillet
  • Mixing Bowl
  • food processor

Method
 

Preparation Steps
  1. Slice the zucchini thinly and sprinkle with salt. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes to draw out moisture, then pat dry.
  2. In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil and cook the pasta until al dente, typically 8-10 minutes. Drain and rinse under cold water.
  3. Heat a skillet over medium heat, add olive oil, and sauté diced red onion for about 4-5 minutes until translucent.
  4. In the same skillet, add more olive oil and cook zucchini slices and halved lemon pieces for about 4-6 minutes until golden.
  5. In a mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, sautéed zucchini, red onion, spinach, and artichoke hearts. Toss gently.
  6. In a food processor, combine vegan yogurt, lemon juice, and miso paste. Blend until smooth for the dressing.
  7. Pour half of the dressing over the salad mixture and gently toss to combine. Serve chilled or at room temperature.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 250kcalCarbohydrates: 38gProtein: 9gFat: 10gSaturated Fat: 1gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 7gSodium: 300mgPotassium: 450mgFiber: 6gSugar: 4gVitamin A: 25IUVitamin C: 35mgCalcium: 50mgIron: 2mg

Notes

Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4-5 days. For meal prep, store dressing separately and mix just before serving.

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