Delicious Basil Pesto Pasta Recipe for a Quick Meal
Basil Pesto Pasta — a italian recipe (condiments and sauces) with 8 ingredients. Source: edamam.com.
30
Total Time (min)
4
servings
514
Calories/serving
Medium
Difficulty
Ingredients
- 8 oz pasta (spaghetti or linguine works well)
- 2 cups fresh basil leaves (packed)
- 1 cup parmesan cheese (grated)
- 1 cup olive oil (extra virgin preferred)
- 1 cup pine nuts (toasted)
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 teaspoon salt (to taste)
- 1 teaspoon black pepper (freshly ground)
Instructions
5 steps
Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente.
Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.Prepare the Pesto
In a food processor, combine basil leaves, pine nuts, garlic, and parmesan cheese. Pulse until finely chopped.
Scrape down the sides as needed.Add Olive Oil
With the processor running, slowly drizzle in the olive oil until the mixture is smooth.
Adjust oil quantity for desired consistency.Season the Pesto
Add salt and black pepper to the pesto, blending briefly to combine.
Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.Combine Pasta and Pesto
In a large bowl, combine the drained pasta with the pesto, adding reserved pasta water a little at a time until coated.
Serve immediately for best flavor.
💡 Tips & Tricks
Storage & Reheating
Refrigerator
Up to 3 days in an airtight container
Freezer
Up to 2 months — thaw overnight in fridge
Reheat in a skillet or microwave until heated through.
What to Serve With
Complete your italian meal with these perfect pairings:
About This Dish
Delicious Basil Pesto Pasta Recipe for a Quick Meal is a beloved dish from Italian cuisine. With a total preparation time of about 30 minutes, it's a quick and easy option for any day of the week.
Italian cuisine is renowned worldwide for its emphasis on simple, quality ingredients and time-honored techniques. Each region of Italy has its own distinct culinary traditions, passed down through generations.
This recipe is rated medium difficulty and uses 8 ingredients. Intermediate cooks will enjoy the balanced challenge.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, store-bought pesto can be used as a time-saver.
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Nutrition Facts
4 serving(s) per recipe
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Values are approximate and may vary based on ingredients used.
