Pesto Pasta
Pesto pasta is a fresh, vibrant dish where pasta is tossed in a fragrant basil and pine nut sauce. It comes together in the time it takes to boil the pasta, making it perfect for a quick lunch or weeknight dinner. Bright, herby, and satisfying, it works hot or as a cold pasta salad.
- ⏱ 20 min
- 📊 easy
- 🍽 Family
Ingredients
- 350 g pasta
- 2 cups fresh basil
- 1/3 cup pine nuts
- 2 cloves garlic
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan
- 1/2 cup olive oil
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
Instructions
- Cook the pasta in well-salted water until al dente, reserving some pasta water.
- Blend the basil, pine nuts, garlic, Parmesan, and olive oil into a smooth pesto.
- Season the pesto with salt, pepper, and the lemon juice.
- Drain the pasta and return it to the pot off the heat.
- Toss with the pesto and a splash of pasta water until creamy and well coated.
- Serve topped with extra Parmesan and basil.
💡 Chef's tip
Add the pesto off the heat rather than cooking it; high heat dulls the fresh basil color and flavor, turning it muddy.
Loosening the pesto with a spoonful of starchy pasta water before tossing keeps it creamy and helps it coat every strand instead of clumping in dry patches.
Nutrition (per serving)
- Calories: 520 kcal
- Protein: 14 g
- Carbs: 58 g
- Fat: 26 g
