How to Make Lemon Basil Pasta Salad - A Step-by-Step Guide

When it comes to summer meals, nothing beats a refreshing and light pasta salad. This Lemon Basil Pasta Salad is the epitome of summer - with fresh, zesty flavors and a burst of herbaceous goodness. Featuring al dente pasta, tangy lemon juice, and fragrant basil, this dish is a crowd-pleaser and perfect for picnics, potlucks, or a simple weeknight dinner.

The key to a great pasta salad is the perfect balance of flavors and textures. In this recipe, the bright and citrusy lemon pairs b...

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Ingredients

  • 2 skinless, boneless chicken breast halves
  • salt and ground black pepper to taste
  • 1 (16 ounce) package rotini pasta
  • 1 pinch garlic salt, or to taste
  • ½ cup vegetable oil
  • 1 lemon, juiced
  • ¼ cup fresh basil, chopped
  • ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese, or to taste
  • 1 (10 ounce) package baby spinach leaves

Information

  • Prep Time: 15 mins
  • Cook Time: 40 mins
  • Additional Time: 2 hrs
  • Total Time: 2 hrs 55 mins
  • Servings: 6
  • Yield: 6 servings

  • Preheat grill for medium heat and lightly oil the grate. Season chicken breasts with salt and black pepper.
  • Cook chicken breasts on the preheated grill until no longer pink in the center and the juices run clear, about 30 minutes. An instant-read thermometer inserted into the center should read at least 165 degrees F (74 degrees C). Cut chicken into cubes.
  • Bring a large pot of lightly salted water to a boil; cook the rotini at a boil until tender yet firm to the bite, about 8 minutes; drain. Season pasta with garlic salt.
  • Whisk vegetable oil, lemon juice, basil, and Parmesan cheese together in a large bowl. Add pasta, chicken, and spinach leaves. Toss to coat.
  • Cover and chill for 2 hours before serving.
  • Nutrition

    513 cal.

    • Total Fat: 21g
    • Saturated Fat: 4g
    • Cholesterol: 25mg
    • Sodium: 167mg
    • Total Carbohydrate: 59g
    • Dietary Fiber: 4g
    • Total Sugars: 2g
    • Protein: 21g
    • Vitamin C: 17mg
    • Calcium: 107mg
    • Iron: 4mg
    • Potassium: 516mg