Classic Basil Pesto Pasta
Transform your weeknight dinner into a vibrant Italian masterpiece with this Classic Basil Pesto Pasta recipe. Bursting with the fresh, herbaceous aroma of basil leaves and the rich nuttiness of toasted pine nuts, this dish perfectly balances simplicity and sophistication. The creamy pesto sauce, made with extra-virgin olive oil, Parmesan cheese, zesty lemon juice, and a hint of garlic, coats al dente pasta for a meal that feels indulgent yet effortless. Ready in just 25 minutes from start to finish, this quick and crowd-pleasing recipe is perfect for busy nights or a casual gathering with friends. Garnish with freshly grated Parmesan and basil for a stunning presentation that’s as delicious as it looks.
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Ingredients
- 400 grams Pasta
- 2 cups Basil leaves
- 0.25 cup Pine nuts
- 2 units Garlic cloves
- 0.5 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- 0.5 cup Extra-virgin olive oil
- 0.5 tsp Salt
- 0.25 tsp Black pepper
- 1 tbsp Lemon juice
Directions
Step 1
Fill a large pot with water, add a generous pinch of salt, and bring it to a boil over high heat.
Step 2
Add the pasta to the boiling water and cook according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Step 3
Meanwhile, in a dry skillet over medium heat, toast the pine nuts until golden brown, stirring frequently for about 3-4 minutes, and set aside to cool.
Step 4
In a food processor, combine the basil leaves, toasted pine nuts, garlic cloves, grated Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper.
Step 5
Pulse the mixture several times until it starts to become a thick paste.
Step 6
With the processor running, slowly drizzle in the extra-virgin olive oil until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
Step 7
Add the lemon juice and blend again until fully combined. Adjust seasoning with more salt and pepper to taste if needed.
Step 8
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta with the basil pesto. Toss thoroughly to ensure the pasta is evenly coated with the pesto.
Step 9
Serve immediately, garnished with additional grated Parmesan cheese and a few fresh basil leaves if desired.
Nutrition Facts
| Serving size | (633.4g) |
|---|
| Amount per serving | % Daily Value* |
|---|---|
| Calories | 1968.7 |
| Total Fat 154.8g | 0% |
| Saturated Fat 26.2g | 0% |
| Polyunsaturated Fat 11.7g | |
| Cholesterol 40mg | 0% |
| Sodium 2260.7mg | 0% |
| Total Carbohydrate 114.9g | 0% |
| Dietary Fiber 19.5g | 0% |
| Total Sugars 6.2g | |
| Protein 39.9g | 0% |
| Vitamin D 0IU | 0% |
| Calcium 528.4mg | 0% |
| Iron 4.7mg | 0% |
| Potassium 436.2mg | 0% |
Source of Calories