Dessert

Lemon Basil Pasta Salad Recipe

ByClara Bennett October 12, 2026October 12, 2026

Introduction

This Lemon Basil Pasta Salad is a fresh and vibrant dish perfect for warm weather meals or as a light side. Bright lemon and aromatic basil blend beautifully with tender orzo, artichokes, and crisp vegetables to create a flavorful and refreshing salad.

A white bowl filled with a pasta salad that has three main layers: a base of small orzo pasta mixed with green peas, slices of yellow artichoke hearts scattered throughout, and fresh green basil leaves topping the dish. A silver fork rests on the right edge of the bowl, being held by a woman's hand with yellow-tipped nails, poised to eat. In the upper left corner, a larger white bowl holds a similar orzo salad with green peas and artichoke hearts, topped with half a bright yellow lemon. On the left side, another woman's hand with a tattoo holds a glass of dark red wine. The setting is on a pink-tiled table, with a bunch of fresh basil on the right and a glass bottle with a white label and more dark red wine near the top right. A soft pink cloth is partially visible near the woman's hand. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

16 ounces orzo pasta
12 ounces marinated artichokes
1 cup fresh peas (or frozen)
1 zucchini (cut into matchsticks)
1 lemon (zested)
½ lemon (juiced)
1 cup basil leaves (roughly chopped)
½ teaspoon oregano
½ teaspoon kosher salt (more for water)
3 tablespoons olive oil
1 tablespoon white wine vinegar

Instructions

Step 1: Cook the orzo pasta according to the package instructions, about 8 minutes. Using a slotted spoon, transfer the pasta to a large bowl and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process. Save the pasta water.
Step 2: Cook the peas in the reserved pasta water for 2 to 3 minutes until slightly tender. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool.
Step 3: While the pasta cooks, cut the zucchini into thin strips and then into small matchsticks. Drain the artichoke hearts and roughly chop the basil. Add these to the bowl with the pasta.
Step 4: Zest one lemon and squeeze the juice of half a lemon into the bowl. Adjust the lemon juice to taste for more brightness.
Step 5: In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, white wine vinegar, salt, and oregano. Pour this dressing over the pasta mixture and gently toss to combine.
Step 6: Serve the salad chilled or at room temperature, with lemon wedges on the side for extra zest.

Tips & Variations

For extra texture, add toasted pine nuts or slivered almonds.
Swap orzo for other small pasta shapes like couscous or ditalini if preferred.
Fresh peas can be replaced with frozen ones; just thaw before adding.
Enhance flavor by adding a handful of cherry tomatoes or diced cucumber.

Storage

Store the pasta salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors meld well over time, but the zucchini may soften slightly. Serve chilled or let it come to room temperature before enjoying. If needed, toss gently to redistribute the dressing.

How to Serve

A white speckled bowl holds a fresh orzo pasta salad layered with small light yellow artichoke hearts, bright green peas, thin strips of zucchini, and chopped leafy green herbs scattered throughout. Near the top left of the bowl, a bright yellow lemon half rests on the orzo, adding a burst of color. The textures range from the smooth, glossy orzo grains to the soft artichoke pieces and fresh vegetable bits. A silver spoon peeks out from the right side, partially buried under the salad. The bowl is set on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use dried basil instead of fresh?

Fresh basil offers a bright, aromatic flavor that dried basil can’t quite match in this salad. If needed, use about one-third the amount of dried basil but expect a less vibrant taste.

Is this salad suitable for meal prep?

Yes, this pasta salad holds up well for meal prep. Keep it refrigerated and add any fresh herbs or lemon wedges just before serving for the best flavor.