Description
Pesto Pasta is a vibrant, quick dish that transforms simple ingredients into a delightful culinary experience. In just 30 minutes, you can whip up this creamy, herbaceous meal that dazzles the palate and brings smiles to the dinner table. Bursting with fresh basil and Parmesan flavors, this versatile recipe allows you to customize with your favorite proteins or veggies. Perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings, it’s sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients
Scale
- 8 oz pasta (spaghetti or penne)
- 2 cups fresh basil leaves
- 1/4 cup pine nuts (toasted)
- 2 garlic cloves
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
- Juice of 1 lemon
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- 1. Cook the pasta: Boil salted water and cook pasta until al dente as per package directions. Drain and set aside.
- 2. Toast the pine nuts: In a dry skillet over medium heat, toast pine nuts for 3-5 minutes until golden.
- 3. Make the pesto: Blend basil leaves, garlic, toasted pine nuts, and Parmesan in a food processor. Slowly add olive oil while blending until creamy.
- 4. Add lemon juice and season: Mix in lemon juice, salt, and pepper to taste.
- 5. Combine: Toss hot pasta with pesto sauce in a large bowl until evenly coated.
- 6. Serve: Plate the pasta, garnish with extra Parmesan if desired, and enjoy warm.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Cooking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (approximately 200g)
- Calories: 600
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Fat: 48g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 38g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 15g
- Cholesterol: 20mg