Description
Pesto Pasta is a simple yet flavorful dish that combines fresh basil, garlic, Parmesan, and olive oil. Perfect for any occasion, it’s easy to make and delicious.
Ingredients
Scale
- 400g pasta (spaghetti, penne, or your choice)
- 2 cups packed fresh basil leaves
- 2–3 garlic cloves
- 1/3 cup pine nuts
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup olive oil
- Salt to taste
- Black pepper to taste
- Optional: 1/2 cup parsley or spinach for variation
Instructions
- Boil salted water in a large pot. Cook pasta according to package instructions, about 8-10 minutes for al dente. Reserve 1 cup pasta water and drain.
- In a food processor, combine basil, garlic, pine nuts, salt, and pulse until broken down. Add Parmesan and blend until smooth. Gradually drizzle in olive oil until pesto reaches desired consistency.
- In a large mixing bowl, toss cooked pasta with pesto. If needed, add reserved pasta water for a smoother sauce.
- Serve immediately, garnished with extra Parmesan and pine nuts. Optionally, drizzle with olive oil and enjoy!
Notes
- For gluten-free, use gluten-free pasta or zucchini noodles.
- Try walnuts, almonds, or sunflower seeds as alternatives to pine nuts.
- If vegan, substitute Parmesan with nutritional yeast or omit it.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 400mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 18g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 9g
- Cholesterol: 10mg
Keywords: Pesto Pasta, pesto recipe, Italian pasta, basil pesto, garlic pesto pasta, easy pasta recipe