Trader Joe’s Lemon Basil Pasta Salad is a refreshing and vibrant dish that combines the zesty flavors of lemon and basil with the goodness of pasta. It’s a perfect choice for a light and flavorful meal or as a side dish for a summer gathering. This salad is quick and easy to prepare, making it an excellent option for busy individuals or those who want a fuss-free meal without compromising on taste.
Equipment Needed
To make Pasta Salad, you’ll need the following equipment:
- Large pot for boiling pasta
- Strainer or colander
- Mixing bowl
- Whisk or fork for dressing
- Serving dish
Ingredients
For the pasta salad
- 1 package of Trader Joe’s Lemon Basil Pasta
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup sliced black olives
- 1/4 cup chopped red onion
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil leaves
For the dressing
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- Salt and pepper to taste
Cooking Instructions
- Cook the Trader Joe’s Lemon Basil Pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse the cooked pasta with cold water to stop the cooking process. Set aside.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cherry tomatoes, black olives, red onion, and fresh basil.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the extra virgin olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, salt, and pepper to make the dressing.
- Add the cooked pasta to the mixing bowl with the vegetables. Pour the dressing over the pasta and vegetables. Gently toss everything together until well coated with the dressing.
- Allow the flavors to meld together by setting pasta in the refrigerator.
Conclusion
Trader Joe’s Lemon Basil Pasta Salad is a delightful combination of tangy lemon, fragrant basil, and wholesome pasta. With its simple yet flavorful ingredients and easy preparation, it’s a go-to option for a quick and satisfying meal or a side dish at any gathering. Enjoy the vibrant flavors of this refreshing pasta salad!
FAQs
Is Trader Joe’s Lemon Basil Pasta Salad vegetarian-friendly?
Yes, Trader Joe’s Lemon Basil Pasta Salad is suitable for vegetarians.
Can I add other vegetables or proteins to the salad?
Absolutely! You can customize the salad by adding your favorite vegetables like bell peppers, cucumbers, or grilled zucchini. Additionally, you can include protein options such as grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas to make it a more substantial meal.
Can I use regular pasta instead of Trader Joe’s Lemon Basil Pasta?
Yes, if you don’t have access to Trader Joe’s Lemon Basil Pasta, you can substitute it with regular pasta and add extra lemon juice and fresh basil to the dressing to enhance the flavors.
Trader Joe's Lemon Basil Pasta Salad
Equipment
- Large pot for boiling pasta
- Strainer or colander
- Mixing bowl
- Whisk or fork for dressing
- Serving dish
Ingredients
For the pasta salad
- 1 package of Trader Joe's Lemon Basil Pasta
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup sliced black olives
- 1/4 cup chopped red onion
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil leaves
For the dressing
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook the Trader Joe's Lemon Basil Pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse the cooked pasta with cold water to stop the cooking process. Set aside.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cherry tomatoes, black olives, red onion, and fresh basil.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the extra virgin olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, salt, and pepper to make the dressing.
- Add the cooked pasta to the mixing bowl with the vegetables. Pour the dressing over the pasta and vegetables. Gently toss everything together until well coated with the dressing.
- Allow the flavors to meld together by setting pasta in the refrigerator.
