Fresh Basil Pesto Pasta Recipe
Fresh Basil Pesto Pasta is a vibrant, flavorful dish that brings together fragrant basil, garlic, pine nuts, Parmesan cheese, and olive oil blended into a rich green sauce. Tossed with your favorite pasta, this quick and easy meal is perfect for summer dinners, light lunches, or elegant gatherings.
Ingredients List
2 cups fresh basil leaves
2 cloves garlic
¼ cup pine nuts (or walnuts)
½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
½ cup extra virgin olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
12 oz pasta (spaghetti, linguine, or penne work well)
½ cup reserved pasta water
Optional toppings: cherry tomatoes, grilled chicken, extra Parmesan, or toasted pine nuts
Step-by-Step Instructions
Cook pasta in salted water until al dente. Reserve ½ cup pasta water, then drain pasta.
In a food processor, combine basil, garlic, pine nuts, and Parmesan. Pulse until finely chopped.
With the motor running, slowly drizzle in olive oil until the mixture becomes a smooth sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Toss cooked pasta with pesto sauce, adding reserved pasta water a little at a time until the sauce coats the pasta evenly.
Serve warm or at room temperature. Garnish with desired toppings such as cherry tomatoes, grilled chicken, or more Parmesan.
Cook Time
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes
Servings
Serves 4
Nutritional Information (approx. per serving)
Calories: 430
Carbs: 35g
Protein: 11g
Fat: 28g
Storage Instructions
Store leftover pesto in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days.
Can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw in fridge and stir before using.
Pairings/Suggestions
Pairs beautifully with garlic bread, Caprese salad, or grilled vegetables. Add shrimp or chicken for extra protein.
Seasonal Relevance
Best made in summer when fresh basil is abundant, but delicious year-round with store-bought basil or frozen pesto.
Conclusion
This Fresh Basil Pesto Pasta is a quick, flavorful, and satisfying dish perfect for any occasion. The homemade pesto bursts with fresh, herby flavor and coats every bite of pasta beautifully. Light yet comforting, it’s a go-to for busy weeknights or elegant weekend meals.
Fresh Basil Pesto Pasta Recipe
4
servings10
minutes20
minutes430
kcalA fresh and vibrant pasta dish tossed in homemade basil pesto. Light, quick, and perfect for warm-weather meals or cozy comfort any time of year.
Ingredients
2 cups fresh basil leaves
2 cloves garlic
¼ cup pine nuts (or walnuts)
½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
½ cup extra virgin olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
12 oz pasta (spaghetti, linguine, or penne work well)
½ cup reserved pasta water
Optional toppings: cherry tomatoes, grilled chicken, extra Parmesan, or toasted pine nuts
Directions
- Cook pasta in salted water until al dente. Reserve ½ cup pasta water, then drain pasta.
- In a food processor, combine basil, garlic, pine nuts, and Parmesan. Pulse until finely chopped.
- With the motor running, slowly drizzle in olive oil until the mixture becomes a smooth sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Toss cooked pasta with pesto sauce, adding reserved pasta water a little at a time until the sauce coats the pasta evenly.
- Serve warm or at room temperature. Garnish with desired toppings such as cherry tomatoes, grilled chicken, or more Parmesan.
Recipe Video
Notes
- You can use walnuts instead of pine nuts.
Reserve pasta water to help the pesto coat evenly.
Store leftover pesto in the fridge or freezer.
FAQs
Q1: Can I use store-bought pesto?
Yes, but homemade pesto gives a fresher, more vibrant flavor.
Q2: What can I use instead of pine nuts?
Walnuts, almonds, or sunflower seeds are great alternatives.
Q3: Is this recipe vegetarian?
Yes, as long as the Parmesan used is vegetarian-friendly.
