Pesto Pasta Recipe
If you love quick, flavorful, and fresh meals, this Pesto Pasta Recipe will become a staple in your kitchen. Bursting with the rich taste of basil, garlic, Parmesan, and olive oil, this dish is simple yet incredibly satisfying. Whether served on its own or topped with chicken or veggies, it’s perfect for busy weeknights or light summer dinners.
Ingredients List
- 12 oz pasta (spaghetti, penne, or fusilli)
- 1 cup fresh basil leaves
- ¼ cup pine nuts (or walnuts)
- 2 garlic cloves
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ cup olive oil
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Optional toppings: cherry tomatoes, grilled chicken, mushrooms
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Boil a large pot of salted water. Add the pasta and cook until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Step 2: In a food processor, combine basil, pine nuts, garlic, and Parmesan. Pulse until finely chopped.
Step 3: While blending, slowly add olive oil until the mixture becomes a smooth pesto. Season with salt and pepper.
Step 4: Toss the hot pasta with the pesto until well coated.
Step 5: Optional: Top with cherry tomatoes, grilled chicken, or mushrooms.
Step 6: Serve immediately with extra Parmesan and fresh basil.
Cooking Time
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Total Time: 22 minutes
Servings
Makes 4 servings
Nutritional Information (Per Serving Approx.)
- Calories: 430
- Carbs: 45g
- Protein: 12g
- Fat: 22g
Storage Instructions
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Reheat gently with a splash of olive oil or water.
- Homemade pesto can be refrigerated for 5 days or frozen for 1 month.
Pairings/Suggestions
- Great with garlic bread or a green salad.
- Add grilled shrimp, chicken, or veggies for a fuller meal.
- A sprinkle of chili flakes or toasted nuts adds a fun twist.
Seasonal Relevance
This dish shines in spring and summer, when basil is at its freshest and meals are best kept light and easy.
Pesto Pasta Recipe
4
servings10
minutes12
minutes430
kcalThis Pesto Pasta Recipe is a quick and flavorful Italian classic made with fresh basil, garlic, Parmesan, and olive oil. Tossed with your favorite pasta, it’s a simple yet delicious meal perfect for busy weeknights or light summer dinners.
Ingredients
12 oz pasta (spaghetti, penne, or fusilli)
1 cup fresh basil leaves
¼ cup pine nuts (or walnuts)
2 garlic cloves
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
½ cup olive oil
Salt and black pepper to taste
Optional toppings: cherry tomatoes, grilled chicken, mushrooms
Directions
- Boil a large pot of salted water. Add the pasta and cook until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a food processor, combine basil, pine nuts, garlic, and Parmesan. Pulse until finely chopped.
- While blending, slowly add olive oil until the mixture becomes a smooth pesto. Season with salt and pepper.
- Toss the hot pasta with the pesto until well coated.
- Optional: Top with cherry tomatoes, grilled chicken, or mushrooms.
- Serve immediately with extra Parmesan and fresh basil.
Recipe Video
Notes
- Pesto pasta is a refreshing and easy dish that brings together the bold flavors of fresh basil, garlic, Parmesan cheese, and olive oil. It’s a versatile meal that can be served on its own or enhanced with veggies or protein—perfect for both casual lunches and elegant dinners.
❓FAQs
Q1: Can I make it without nuts?
Yes, simply skip the nuts or use sunflower seeds as a substitute.
Q2: How do I make it vegan?
Replace Parmesan with vegan cheese or nutritional yeast.
Q3: Can I use jarred pesto?
Yes, but homemade pesto delivers a much fresher flavor.
Conclusion
This Pesto Pasta Recipe is fresh, fast, and flavorful—an effortless meal that tastes like it came straight from an Italian kitchen. With just a few ingredients and minimal prep, you’ll have a vibrant, herb-packed dish ready in under 30 minutes.
