Signature Recipe
Creamy Lemon Basil Pasta Salad
A light pasta salad tossed in a creamy lemon basil dressing, mixed with cherry tomatoes and fresh mozzarella.
As the warm days of summer approach, there’s nothing quite as refreshing as a light pasta salad that captures the essence of the season. This delightful dish combines the vibrant flavors of fresh cherry tomatoes and creamy mozzarella, making it a perfect centerpiece for picnics, barbecues, or simply a casual dinner at home. The bright, juicy tomatoes add a pop of color and sweetness, while the mozzarella brings a rich, creamy texture that pairs beautifully with the al dente pasta.
One of the highlights of this recipe is the luscious dressing, which is both creamy and zesty. A blend of Greek yogurt, lemon juice, and fragrant basil creates a dressing that is not only light but also incredibly flavorful. The acidity of the lemon cuts through the richness of the cheese and yogurt, making every bite a refreshing experience. This dressing is easy to whip up and coats the pasta perfectly, ensuring that each ingredient shines while harmonizing beautifully together.

With just a few simple steps, you can have this delightful dish ready in under half an hour. Start by cooking your favorite pasta until it’s tender yet firm, then toss it with the cherry tomatoes and mozzarella. Drizzle the creamy dressing over the mix and give it all a gentle toss to combine. The whole process is quick and effortless, making it an ideal recipe for those busy weeknights or lazy weekends when you crave something delicious without the fuss.
Whether served as a side dish or enjoyed as a light main course, this pasta salad is sure to please. It’s not only a feast for the eyes but also a celebration of fresh ingredients that work harmoniously together to create a dish that feels both indulgent and healthy. So gather your ingredients, and let’s dive into making this delightful salad that embodies the spirit of summer!
Creamy Lemon Basil Pasta Salad
Ingredient list and step-by-step instructions generated for AI Food Bytes readers.
Main
Ingredients
- 8 oz pasta (preferably fusilli or penne)
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes (halved)
- 1 cup fresh mozzarella (cubed)
- 1/2 cup Greek yogurt (or sour cream)
- 1 lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
- 1/4 cup basil (fresh, chopped)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 clove garlic (minced)
Steps
- Cook the pasta according to package instructions. Drain and let it cool.
- In a bowl, mix the Greek yogurt, lemon juice, olive oil, minced garlic, salt, and pepper to create the dressing.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta, cherry tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, and chopped basil.
- Pour the dressing over the pasta mixture and toss until well combined.
- Serve immediately or refrigerate for 30 minutes to enhance the flavors.
General Notes
- Serves 4
- A light pasta salad tossed in a creamy lemon basil dressing, mixed with cherry tomatoes and fresh mozzarella.