Description
A bright and refreshing pasta salad made with tender orzo, fresh basil, zesty lemon, and a light olive oil dressing, finished with parmesan and toasted pine nuts for the perfect balance of flavor and texture.
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 cups orzo pasta
- 1 cup fresh basil leaves, packed and roughly torn
- 1 large lemon, zested and juiced
- 1/3 cup olive oil
- 1/2 cup parmesan cheese, finely grated
- 1/4 cup pine nuts, lightly toasted
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Preheat Your Equipment: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Combine Ingredients: Cook the orzo pasta according to package instructions until tender.
- Prepare Your Cooking Vessel: Drain the pasta and transfer it to a large mixing bowl to cool slightly.
- Assemble the Dish: Add olive oil, lemon zest, lemon juice, minced garlic, salt, and black pepper. Toss gently to coat.
- Cook to Perfection: Stir in the toasted pine nuts and grated parmesan cheese until evenly combined.
- Finishing Touches: Fold in the fresh basil leaves just before serving.
- Serve and Enjoy: Serve immediately or chill before serving for a refreshing flavor.
Notes
- Toast the pine nuts lightly to enhance their flavor.
- Add a splash of olive oil and lemon juice before serving if the pasta seems dry.
- Do not overcook the pasta to keep a pleasant texture.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 220mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 9g
- Cholesterol: 10mg
Keywords: lemon basil pasta salad, orzo salad, fresh pasta salad, easy pasta recipe, summer salad