Basil Goat Cheese Pasta Salad

Basil Goat Cheese Pasta Salad is a delightful dish that brings together fresh ingredients in a vibrant and satisfying way. Imagine biting into tender pasta coated in a creamy basil vinaigrette, brightened by roasted beets and rich goat cheese. This salad isn’t just another recipe; it’s a celebration of flavors and textures that can make any meal feel special. Whether you’re prepping for a summer picnic, a family barbecue, or just a light weeknight dinner, this recipe offers a refreshing taste that everyone will love.

Making this salad gives you room to play and explore with the ingredients. You can customize it with your favorite vegetables or proteins. Plus, it’s as beautiful to look at as it is delicious to eat. The bright colors of the salad will have guests lining up for seconds, and it’s a wonderful way to enjoy seasonal produce. So, let’s dive into how to prepare this delectable Basil Goat Cheese Pasta Salad that’s perfect for any occasion!

Why This Recipe Works

This recipe shines for several reasons. First off, the fresh ingredients speak for themselves. The combo of sweet roasted beets, creamy goat cheese, and vibrant basil creates a flavor explosion in every bite. The creamy vinaigrette generously coats the pasta, making it oh-so-satisfying.

Moreover, it’s customizable! You can easily substitute ingredients based on your preferences or what’s in season. The versatility makes it a year-round favorite. Not to mention, the simplicity in preparation means you don’t need to spend hours in the kitchen. Just combine, roast, and toss everything together for a dish that looks gourmet but feels effortless!

Why You’ll Love This Basil Goat Cheese Pasta Salad

This Basil Goat Cheese Pasta Salad is loved for its balance of flavors. The herbaceous basil brings freshness, while the goat cheese adds a tangy creaminess. The roasted beets contribute an earthiness and a pop of color, ensuring that each serving is visually appealing.

Not only is it delicious, but it’s also healthy! Packed with veggies and good fats from the olive oil and avocado, this dish provides nutrients without sacrificing taste. Plus, it can be served warm or chilled, giving you flexibility for meal prep or entertaining. It’s great for impressing guests but fast enough to whip up on a busy weeknight!

Ingredients

• 2 cups fresh basil
• 1/2 cup olive oil
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
• 1 clove garlic
• 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (or more to taste)
• Kosher salt
• 2-3 small red or yellow beets, halved
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Kosher salt and pepper
• 1 pound short cut pasta (use gluten-free if needed)
• 4-6 ounces soft goat cheese, crumbled
• 2 small yellow summer squash or zucchini, thinly sliced
• 2 ears fresh corn, kernels removed from the cob
• 1 large bunch watercress or spinach
• 1 avocado, sliced

Making the Basil Vinaigrette

Blend the Ingredients

To start, let’s create that creamy basil vinaigrette. Grab your blender or food processor. First, add the fresh basil leaves, olive oil, lemon juice, red wine vinegar, garlic, a teaspoon of kosher salt, and a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes. Blend everything until you achieve a smooth and creamy consistency.

After that, take a moment to taste it and adjust the salt based on your preference. This vinaigrette will really bring your Basil Goat Cheese Pasta Salad to life!

Roasting the Beets

Prepare the Beets for Roasting

Next, we need to focus on those bright, earthy beets. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). In a mixing bowl, toss the halved beets with 2 tablespoons of olive oil, along with a generous pinch of kosher salt and freshly cracked pepper.

Roast Until Tender

Spread the beets out in a single layer on a baking sheet. Roast them for about 25-30 minutes, or until they are tender and slightly charred on the edges. The roasting will enhance their natural sweetness, making them a perfect addition to your salad.

Cooking the Pasta

Boil the Pasta

While the beets are roasting, let’s cook the pasta. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add your chosen short cut pasta and cook it until it is al dente. Always refer to the package instructions for the best timing.

Combine Pasta with Vinaigrette

Once the pasta is done cooking, drain it and transfer it to a large serving bowl. While it’s still warm, add the crumbled goat cheese and a few generous spoonfuls of that creamy basil vinaigrette. Toss everything together until the pasta is well coated in the deliciousness of the vinaigrette.

Adding Vegetables and Serving

Mix in Fresh Vegetables

Now, let’s make this dish even more colorful and nutritious! To the pasta, add the thinly sliced yellow squash (or zucchini), fresh corn kernels, and watercress (or spinach). Gently mix to combine all those beautiful ingredients.

Top with Beets and Avocado

Finally, it’s time to dress up the pasta salad. Add the roasted beets right on top of the pasta and finish with the sliced avocado. It looks stunning and is ready to serve! You can also keep the remaining basil vinaigrette on the side for anyone who wants a little extra drizzle.

Serving Suggestions

Pairing this Basil Goat Cheese Pasta Salad with a light white wine or a sparkly soda makes for a refreshing combination. It works well warm or cold, making it perfect for picnics, summer barbecues, or even a casual family dinner. The flexibility of serving temperature allows you to enjoy it any time!

Tips for Success

• Make sure your goat cheese is at room temperature. This will help it mix more easily with the pasta.
• Always taste as you go. This way, you can adjust the salt and acidity to your liking.
• If you want to add extra crunch, consider tossing in some toasted nuts or seeds. They’ll add texture and flavor!

Variations

Feeling adventurous? Here are some fun variations to try! You can substitute the goat cheese with feta for a different flavor profile. For those looking to bulk it up, adding grilled chicken or shrimp offers a nice protein boost. Also, switch up the seasonal veggies based on what’s fresh and available—there’s no wrong way!

Storage Tips

If you find you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To maintain freshness, consider keeping the avocado and vinaigrette separate until ready to serve. This way, your pasta salad will stay delicious longer!

FAQs

Q1: Can I use dried basil instead of fresh?
A1: While fresh basil is recommended for the best flavor, you can use dried basil if needed. Just use 1/3 of the amount you would use for fresh.

Q2: How can I make this salad vegan?
A2: For a vegan option, substitute the goat cheese with a plant-based cheese alternative. Just skip the honey in the vinaigrette, and you’re good to go!

Q3: What type of pasta works best for this dish?
A3: Short cut pasta like tortellini, fusilli, or penne works well. If necessary, you can easily find gluten-free versions too.

Q4: Is it safe to eat raw fresh corn?
A4: Absolutely! Fresh corn can be eaten raw; it adds a sweet and crunchy element to your salad.

Q5: Can I make the salad in advance?
A5: Yes! You can prepare the salad a few hours ahead of time, just be sure to add the avocado just before serving to avoid browning.

This Basil Goat Cheese Pasta Salad is sure to impress with its vibrant flavors and beautiful presentation. Not only does it make for a refreshing meal, but it’s also a delightful dish that combines fresh ingredients in a way that feels special. Enjoy every bite, and watch as your family and friends ask for seconds!

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