Description
Creamy Lemon Parmesan Pasta Salad is a refreshing and satisfying dish that combines zesty lemon flavor with rich, dairy-free creaminess and smoky savory notes. Made with rotini pasta, smoked turkey bacon, and plant-based Parmesan, this versatile salad is perfect as a light lunch, side dish, or picnic treat. The bright citrus, creamy dressing, and fresh herbs create a delightful medley of textures and tastes.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 8 ounces rotini pasta
- 6 slices smoked turkey bacon
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 1/3 cup plant-based mayonnaise (natural)
- 1/4 cup plant-based Parmesan (plant-based)
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder (natural)
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar (natural)
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Boil the rotini pasta in salted water until just al dente, about 8 to 10 minutes. Drain thoroughly and rinse under cold water to stop cooking and cool the pasta for the salad.
- Prepare the Smoked Turkey Bacon: Cook the smoked turkey bacon in a skillet over medium heat until crisp. Drain on paper towels, then chop into bite-sized pieces for the salad.
- Make the Dressing: In a mixing bowl, combine plant-based mayonnaise (natural), fresh lemon juice, lemon zest, apple cider vinegar (natural), garlic powder (natural), plant-based Parmesan (plant-based), salt, and black pepper. Whisk until smooth and creamy.
- Mix Everything Together: In a large bowl, toss the cooled pasta with the creamy lemon dressing. Add the chopped smoked turkey bacon and fold in fresh parsley gently until everything is evenly coated.
- Chill and Serve: Refrigerate the pasta salad for at least one hour to allow the flavors to meld. Serve chilled for the best taste and texture.
Notes
- Cook pasta al dente to prevent mushiness and retain great texture.
- Use fresh lemon zest for a more vibrant citrus flavor.
- Chill the salad before serving to improve flavor melding and texture.
- Adjust dressing consistency by adding a teaspoon of water or more lemon juice if needed.
- This salad tastes better the next day, making it ideal for make-ahead meals.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Appetizers
- Method: Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 480mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 9g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
Keywords: lemon pasta salad, creamy pasta salad, dairy-free pasta salad, plant-based Parmesan pasta, turkey bacon pasta salad, summer pasta salad
