Description
A refreshing summer pasta salad featuring lemon and basil, perfect for warm weather gatherings.
Ingredients
- 8 ounces of rotini pasta
- 1 cup of cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup of cucumber, diced
- 1/2 cup of red onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup of fresh basil leaves, chopped
- 1/4 cup of olive oil
- 1/4 cup of fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon of lemon zest
- 1 teaspoon of garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup of feta cheese, crumbled (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the rotini pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, and basil.
- In a separate small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Pour the dressing over the pasta salad and toss gently to combine all ingredients.
- If using, sprinkle the feta cheese on top and give the salad a final toss.
- Cover the salad and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
- Serve chilled or at room temperature.
Notes
- For added protein, consider mixing in grilled chicken or chickpeas.
- To make it a bit spicier, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: Mixing
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 200mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 1.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7.5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 5mg