Easy Pasta Salad with Mayo, Lemon and Basil

Step 1

Cook the pasta in a large pot of salted boiling water according to package instructions, adding the broccoli florets to the pot of boiling water during the final 30 seconds of cooking. Drain and rinse under cold water. Set aside to cool completely.

Step 2

In a large bowl, combine cooked pasta, broccoli, peas, red bell pepper, cucumber and green onion.

Step 3

In a separate small bowl, prepare the dressing by whisking together the mayonnaise, lemon juice, basil, garlic, sugar, ½ teaspoon of salt and ¼ teaspoon of pepper.

Step 4

Pour half of the dressing over the salad and gently toss to coat. Taste and season with additional salt and pepper, if necessary. Store the remaining dressing in an airtight container or jar in the refrigerator.

Step 5

Cover the salad and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or overnight.

Step 6

Just before serving, toss with reserved dressing to moisten. Taste and season with additional salt and pepper, if necessary. Garnish with fresh parsley.