Pesto Pasta: Fresh Basil Perfection
A vibrant, 20-minute Italian dish using fresh basil, garlic, pine nuts, Parmesan, and olive oil. This simple pesto pasta celebrates herbaceous flavors and al dente texture without cream, butter, or complex techniques—perfect for weeknights or gatherings.
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Servings: 4 servings
Calories: 450kcal
Ingredients
- 12 oz (340g) pasta
- 1 cup fresh basil leaves
- 3–5 garlic cloves
- 1/3 cup pine nuts
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil
- Cook pasta al dente according to package instructions, then drain
- Toast pine nuts in a dry skillet over medium heat until lightly browned
- Combine basil, garlic, toasted pine nuts, Parmesan, and olive oil in a blender
- Blend into a smooth sauce, adding a splash of pasta water if needed for consistency
- Toss cooked pasta with pesto sauce until evenly coated
- Season with salt and pepper
- Serve immediately, with additional Parmesan optional
Notes
Toast the pine nuts for richer flavor
Pesto can be made ahead and refrigerated for up to 3 days
Substitute walnuts or almonds for pine nuts if preferred
Use cherry tomatoes or lemon zest for added freshness
Pesto can be made ahead and refrigerated for up to 3 days
Substitute walnuts or almonds for pine nuts if preferred
Use cherry tomatoes or lemon zest for added freshness
Nutrition
Serving: 1.5g | Calories: 450kcal | Carbohydrates: 60g | Protein: 15g | Fat: 25g | Saturated Fat: 5g | Cholesterol: 30mg | Sodium: 1mg | Fiber: 2g | Sugar: 2g