Looking for a refreshing side dish? Try this Zesty Lemon Basil Pasta Salad! Perfect for summer gatherings, it combines whole grain pasta with vibrant veggies like cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and bell pepper, all tossed with a tangy lemon dressing. It’s easy to make and packed with flavor. Simply chill for a while to let the ingredients meld, and enjoy this light, healthy dish at your next barbecue or picnic! A delightful and nutritious option everyone will love! 🍋🌿
8 oz whole grain pasta (penne or fusilli)
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1 cucumber, diced
1 bell pepper (red or yellow), diced
1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
1 cup fresh basil leaves, roughly chopped
1/4 cup olives (black or green), pitted and sliced
Zest and juice of 1 large lemon
3 tbsp olive oil
1 tbsp maple syrup (or agave syrup)
1 tsp Dijon mustard
Salt and pepper to taste
Optional: 1/4 cup nutritional yeast (for a cheesy flavor)