You might be surprised to learn that the combination of lemon and basil in pasta salads originated in Mediterranean cuisine, where these flavors have been paired for centuries. This refreshing dish has since evolved to include grilled chicken, adding a protein-packed twist to the classic recipe. As you consider making this versatile salad, you'll find it's not only perfect for summer gatherings but also adaptable to various dietary preferences. Whether you're planning a picnic or a casual dinner party, this lemon basil pasta salad with grilled chicken offers a tantalizing blend of flavors that'll keep your guests coming back for more. But there's more to this dish than meets the eye…
Key Takeaways
- This dish combines fusilli pasta, grilled chicken, lemon, and fresh basil for a refreshing summer salad.
- Cook pasta al dente, grill chicken until 165°F internal temperature, then slice thinly for even distribution.
- Toss cooked pasta and chicken with olive oil, lemon juice, and torn basil leaves.
- Chill the salad for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld.
- Customize with optional ingredients like cherry tomatoes, pine nuts, or Parmesan cheese for added flavor and texture.
History
While the exact origins of lemon basil pasta salad are unclear, it's likely a modern twist on traditional Italian pasta dishes. You'll find that pasta salads gained popularity in the United States during the 1960s and 1970s, as outdoor gatherings and picnics became more common.
The combination of lemon and basil, however, has been a staple in Mediterranean cuisine for centuries.
The addition of grilled chicken to pasta salads became widespread in the 1980s and 1990s, as health-conscious diners sought protein-rich options. This evolution reflects the American tendency to adapt and reimagine classic dishes.
You'll notice that the use of fusilli pasta in this recipe is particularly fitting, as its spiral shape helps to capture the lemon and olive oil dressing.
Today, you'll find countless variations of lemon basil pasta salad across cookbooks and food blogs. It's become a popular choice for summer meals due to its refreshing flavors and ease of preparation.
As you make this dish, you're participating in a culinary tradition that blends Italian influences with modern American tastes.
Recipe
This refreshing Lemon Basil Pasta Salad with Grilled Chicken is a perfect summer dish that combines zesty flavors with a light and satisfying texture. The bright citrus notes of lemon complement the aromatic basil, while the grilled chicken adds a savory element to the pasta salad.
With just five simple ingredients, this recipe is easy to prepare and can be made in advance for picnics, potlucks, or quick weeknight dinners. The combination of flavors creates a balanced and delicious meal that's both filling and refreshing on hot summer days.
- 8 oz (225g) fusilli pasta
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/4 cup (60ml) extra-virgin olive oil
- 2 lemons
- 1 cup (25g) fresh basil leaves
Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. While the pasta is cooking, season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper, then grill them until fully cooked.
Once done, let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing. In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, sliced grilled chicken, olive oil, juice from both lemons, and torn basil leaves. Toss everything together until well combined, ensuring the pasta and chicken are evenly coated with the lemon and olive oil dressing.
For best results, chill the pasta salad in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld. If preparing in advance, reserve some of the basil to add just before serving to maintain its fresh flavor and vibrant color.
You can also customize this dish by adding other ingredients like cherry tomatoes, pine nuts, or grated Parmesan cheese for extra texture and flavor.
Cooking Steps
To prepare this refreshing pasta salad, you'll start by cooking the fusilli until it's al dente and grilling the chicken breasts until they're fully cooked.
Once the chicken has rested, slice it and combine it with the pasta, olive oil, lemon juice, and torn basil leaves in a large bowl, tossing everything together to ensure even distribution.
Step 1. Cook Pasta Until Al Dente
Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil.
Once the water is bubbling vigorously, add your fusilli pasta and stir gently to prevent the noodles from sticking together.
Keep an eye on the clock, as cooking times can vary depending on the brand and thickness of your pasta. You'll want to cook the pasta until it's al dente, which means it should be tender but still have a slight firmness when bitten.
This typically takes about 8-10 minutes, but always refer to the package instructions for the most accurate timing. As the pasta cooks, stir occasionally to ensure even cooking.
To test for doneness, fish out a single piece of pasta and bite into it. If it's still too firm, continue cooking for another minute or two.
Once the pasta reaches the perfect al dente texture, immediately remove the pot from heat and drain the pasta in a colander.
Don't rinse the pasta, as the starch on its surface will help the dressing adhere better. Let it cool slightly before adding it to your salad.
Step 2. Grill and Slice Chicken
Preparation is key when grilling chicken for your lemon basil pasta salad. Start by seasoning your boneless, skinless chicken breasts with salt and pepper, ensuring even coverage.
Preheat your grill to medium-high heat, around 375°F to 400°F. Once hot, place the chicken breasts on the grill and cook for 6-8 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F. You'll know they're ready when the chicken has nice grill marks and is no longer pink in the center.
After grilling, it's crucial to let the chicken rest for about 5 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring your chicken stays moist and flavorful.
Once rested, use a sharp knife to slice the chicken against the grain into thin, even pieces. This technique helps maintain tenderness and makes the chicken easier to eat in your pasta salad.
Remember, uniformly sliced chicken won't only look more appealing but will also ensure each bite of your salad has a perfect balance of flavors.
Step 3. Combine Ingredients in Bowl
Once your pasta is cooked and your chicken is grilled and sliced, you're ready to bring all the elements together.
Grab a large bowl that's spacious enough to accommodate all your ingredients and allow for easy tossing.
Start by adding the cooked fusilli pasta to the bowl, ensuring it's well-drained to prevent excess water from diluting your dressing.
Next, add the sliced grilled chicken to the pasta. The warm chicken will help absorb the flavors of the dressing, enhancing the overall taste of your salad.
Drizzle the extra-virgin olive oil over the pasta and chicken, followed by the juice from both lemons.
The olive oil will help coat the ingredients, while the lemon juice adds a bright, zesty flavor that's characteristic of this dish.
Step 4. Chill for 30 Minutes
After tossing all the ingredients together in the bowl, it's time to let the flavors meld. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a tight-fitting lid and place it in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes.
This chilling period is crucial for several reasons. First, it allows the pasta to absorb the lemon and olive oil dressing, enhancing its flavor. Second, the cooler temperature helps the basil release its aromatic oils, infusing the entire dish with its essence. Lastly, the chilled pasta salad will be more refreshing when served, especially on a warm day.
While waiting, you can prepare any additional ingredients you'd like to include, such as slicing cherry tomatoes or toasting pine nuts. If you're planning to serve the salad later, consider reserving some of the fresh basil to add just before serving. This will ensure the basil maintains its vibrant color and fresh flavor.
After the 30-minute chilling period, give the salad a gentle stir to redistribute the dressing and ingredients. Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed, adding more lemon juice, salt, or pepper to suit your preferences.
Step 5. Garnish With Lemon Zest
The finishing touch for your Lemon Basil Pasta Salad is a sprinkle of fresh lemon zest. This final step elevates the dish by adding a burst of intense citrus flavor and a pop of vibrant yellow color.
To zest a lemon, you'll need a fine grater or a zester tool. Hold the lemon firmly and run it along the grater, being careful to only remove the yellow outer layer and avoid the bitter white pith underneath.
Once you've gathered about a teaspoon of zest, sprinkle it evenly over the top of your chilled pasta salad just before serving. The zest won't only enhance the lemon flavor already present in the dish but also provide a pleasant aroma that'll entice your guests.
If you're feeling extra creative, you can also add a few thin lemon slices or small basil leaves as a garnish alongside the zest.
This simple yet effective finishing touch will transform your Lemon Basil Pasta Salad from delicious to visually stunning, making it an impressive centerpiece for any summer gathering.
Final Thoughts
This Lemon Basil Pasta Salad with Grilled Chicken is a versatile dish that's sure to become a summer favorite.
You'll find it's perfect for various occasions, from casual picnics to elegant dinner parties. The combination of zesty lemon, aromatic basil, and savory grilled chicken creates a balanced flavor profile that's both refreshing and satisfying.
Don't hesitate to experiment with additional ingredients to suit your taste preferences or dietary needs.
