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As the warm months approach, pasta salads emerge as a quintessential element of summer cuisine. Their versatility and ease of preparation make them a favorite among home cooks and party planners alike. Pasta salads offer a delightful way to combine fresh, seasonal ingredients, creating dishes that are not only satisfying but also bursting with flavor. Among the myriad of pasta salad recipes, the Refreshing Cold Lemon Basil Pasta Salad stands out. This dish showcases the vibrant flavors of lemon and basil, complemented by the colorful tri-color fusilli pasta, making it a feast for both the eyes and the palate.

Cold Lemon Basil Pasta Salad

Discover the ultimate summer delight with this Refreshing Cold Lemon Basil Pasta Salad. Bursting with vibrant flavors from fresh lemon and basil, this easy-to-make dish features colorful tri-color fusilli pasta, juicy cherry tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and briny Kalamata olives. Perfect for barbecues and picnics, it's a nourishing option packed with nutrients. Customize it with seasonal veggies for a unique twist and create a refreshing centerpiece for your warm-weather gatherings.
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Ingredients
  

12 ounces tri-color fusilli pasta

1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

1 cup fresh mozzarella balls (bocce balls), halved

½ cup Kalamata olives, pitted and sliced

1 cup fresh basil leaves, loosely packed and roughly chopped

⅓ cup freshly squeezed lemon juice (about 2-3 lemons)

½ cup extra virgin olive oil

1 clove garlic, finely minced

1 teaspoon honey (optional, for a touch of sweetness)

Salt and black pepper to taste

Grated Parmesan cheese for serving (optional)

Instructions
 

Cook the Pasta: In a large pot, bring generously salted water to a rapid boil. Add the tri-color fusilli pasta and cook according to the package directions until it's al dente. Once done, drain the pasta thoroughly and rinse it under cold running water to halt the cooking process. Set aside to cool completely.

    Prepare the Dressing: In a small mixing bowl, combine the freshly squeezed lemon juice, extra virgin olive oil, minced garlic, honey (if using), and a pinch of salt and black pepper. Whisk the mixture until all ingredients are well blended and emulsified.

      Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, add the cooled fusilli pasta along with the halved cherry tomatoes, mozzarella balls, sliced Kalamata olives, and roughly chopped fresh basil. Drizzle the prepared dressing over the salad and gently toss all the ingredients together until everything is even coated in the dressing.

        Chill the Salad: Cover the salad bowl with plastic wrap or a tight-fitting lid. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour, allowing the flavors to meld together and the salad to become nicely chilled.

          Serve: Before serving, give the pasta salad a gentle toss and taste for seasoning, adjusting with more salt and pepper as needed. Serve the salad chilled, garnished with freshly grated Parmesan cheese on top if desired.

            Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 15 mins | 1 hr 15 mins | 6-8 servings

              - Presentation Tips: For an elegant touch, serve the salad in a large, shallow bowl and garnish with extra basil leaves and a sprinkle of lemon zest.