Chilled Lemon Pasta Bowl

As the sun shines brighter and the temperatures rise, our culinary cravings often shift toward lighter, more refreshing dishes. Enter the Zesty Chilled Lemon Pasta Bowl, a vibrant and flavorful option that perfectly encapsulates the essence of summer dining. This dish is not only simple to prepare but also bursts with the zesty brightness of fresh lemons, making it an ideal choice for warm days, al fresco picnics, or a light dinner at home.

Looking for a refreshing summer dish? Try the Zesty Chilled Lemon Pasta Bowl! This vibrant meal features al dente pasta tossed with juicy cherry tomatoes, aromatic basil, and a bright lemon dressing. Perfect for picnics or light dinners, it’s easy to customize with your choice of protein or vegetables. Chill it for at least 30 minutes to enhance the flavors. A beautiful presentation makes it a crowd-pleaser at any summer gathering. Enjoy the taste of summer with every bite!

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Ingredients

8 oz uncooked pasta (spaghetti or fettuccine recommended)

1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

1 cup fresh basil leaves, roughly chopped

1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil

Juice and zest of 2 large lemons

1 teaspoon garlic powder

Salt and black pepper, to taste

Optional: 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes for an extra kick

Optional: 1 cup cooked shrimp or grilled chicken for added protein

Instructions

Cook the Pasta: In a large pot, bring salted water to a rolling boil. Add in the pasta of your choice and cook according to the package directions until al dente—typically around 8 to 10 minutes. Once cooked, drain the pasta and rinse it under cold running water until completely cool. Set aside to allow excess water to drain.

Prepare the Dressing: In a medium mixing bowl, combine the extra-virgin olive oil, fresh lemon juice, lemon zest, garlic powder, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Whisk the ingredients together thoroughly until well blended. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.

Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta, halved cherry tomatoes, roughly chopped basil leaves, and grated Parmesan cheese. If you opted for protein, such as cooked shrimp or grilled chicken, add it in at this stage.

Dress the Pasta: Carefully drizzle the prepared lemon dressing over the pasta mixture. Using tongs or a large spoon, toss everything gently until the pasta, vegetables, and dressing are evenly combined.

Chill in the Fridge: Cover the mixing bowl tightly with plastic wrap or a lid and place it in the refrigerator. Allow the pasta to chill for at least 30 minutes. This will help the flavors meld beautifully and enhance the dish's refreshing quality.

Serve and Garnish: After chilling, gently toss the pasta one more time before serving. For an added touch, garnish with extra fresh basil leaves and a sprinkle of additional Parmesan cheese, if desired. Enjoy your delightful and refreshing Chilled Lemon Pasta Bowl!

Prep Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 45 minutes | Servings: 4-6

Presentation Tips: Serve the pasta in large bowls or on individual plates, ensuring the vibrant colors of the tomatoes and basil are prominently displayed. For an extra lemony touch, garnish with thin lemon slices on the side.