Description
A refreshing and vibrant Lemon Basil Pasta Salad featuring orzo pasta, marinated artichokes, fresh peas, and zucchini matchsticks tossed in a zesty lemon and herb dressing. Perfect as a light lunch or a delightful side dish.
Ingredients
Scale
Pasta and Vegetables
- 16 ounces orzo pasta
- 12 ounces marinated artichokes, drained
- 1 cup fresh peas (or frozen)
- 1 zucchini, cut into matchsticks
Herbs and Seasonings
- 1 cup basil leaves, roughly chopped
- ½ teaspoon oregano
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt (plus more for pasta water)
- 1 lemon, zested
- ½ lemon, juiced
Dressing
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon white wine vinegar
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Cook the orzo pasta according to package instructions, about 8 minutes. Use a slotted spoon to transfer the pasta into a large bowl. Rinse it well with cold water to halt cooking. Keep the pasta water for the peas.
- Cook the Peas: Add the peas to the reserved pasta water and cook for 2-3 minutes until slightly tender. Drain and rinse with cold water to stop cooking. Add peas to the pasta bowl.
- Prepare Vegetables and Herbs: While pasta cooks, cut the zucchini into thin matchsticks. Drain the marinated artichokes. Roughly chop the basil leaves. Add zucchini, artichokes, and basil to the pasta bowl.
- Add Lemon Flavor: Zest one lemon and squeeze the juice of half a lemon into the bowl. Adjust the juice quantity for preferred lemon intensity.
- Make and Toss Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, white wine vinegar, salt, and oregano. Pour the dressing over the pasta mixture and gently toss everything together until well combined.
- Serve: Serve the salad chilled or at room temperature with lemon wedges on the side for extra zing.
Notes
- This salad is ideal served chilled but can be enjoyed at room temperature.
- Marinated artichokes add a great tangy flavor; drain them well to avoid excess liquid.
- You can substitute orzo with any small-shaped pasta like ditalini or small shells.
- For a vegan variation, keep all ingredients; this recipe is naturally vegetarian and vegan.
- Adjust lemon juice amount to taste for desired tartness.
