Dairy-Free Classic Basil Pesto Pasta
Savor the fresh, herbaceous flavors of Dairy-Free Classic Basil Pesto Pasta, a creamy and vibrant twist on a beloved Italian favorite! This recipe is a perfect choice for those seeking a plant-based, dairy-free alternative without compromising on taste. Made with nutrient-packed fresh basil, heart-healthy pine nuts, and a zesty touch of freshly squeezed lemon juice, the pesto is elevated with a creamy richness from nutritional yeast. Tossed with your favorite gluten-free pasta (or any variety of your choice), this quick and easy dish comes together in just 25 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights or a comforting yet elegant dinner. Vegan, gluten-free, and bursting with bold, fresh flavors, this recipe is the ultimate go-to for anyone craving a wholesome yet indulgent meal.
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Ingredients
- 2 cups Fresh basil leaves
- 0.5 cups Pine nuts
- 2 medium Garlic cloves
- 0.25 cups Nutritional yeast
- 0.5 cups Extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tablespoons Freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 0.5 teaspoons Salt
- 0.25 teaspoons Ground black pepper
- 12 ounces Gluten-free pasta (or pasta of choice)
Directions
Step 1
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil over high heat. Once boiling, add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente.
Step 2
While the pasta is cooking, prepare the pesto sauce. In a food processor or blender, combine the fresh basil leaves, pine nuts, garlic cloves, and nutritional yeast. Pulse a few times until the ingredients are coarsely chopped.
Step 3
With the food processor running, gradually add the extra virgin olive oil in a steady stream until the mixture is smooth and creamy. Scrape down the sides as needed.
Step 4
Add the freshly squeezed lemon juice, salt, and ground black pepper to the pesto, and pulse again to combine. Taste and adjust the seasoning as desired.
Step 5
Once the pasta is done cooking, reserve 1/2 cup of the pasta water and then drain the pasta.
Step 6
In a large mixing bowl or the pot used for boiling, combine the drained pasta with the pesto sauce. Toss well to coat the pasta evenly. If the pesto is too thick, gradually add the reserved pasta water to achieve the desired consistency.
Step 7
Serve the pesto pasta immediately, garnished with additional fresh basil leaves and a sprinkle of nutritional yeast if desired.
Nutrition Facts
| Serving size | (606.3g) |
|---|
| Amount per serving | % Daily Value* |
|---|---|
| Calories | 1974.9 |
| Total Fat 163.6g | 0% |
| Saturated Fat 20.0g | 0% |
| Polyunsaturated Fat 23.0g | |
| Cholesterol 0mg | 0% |
| Sodium 1204.4mg | 0% |
| Total Carbohydrate 119.2g | 0% |
| Dietary Fiber 11.9g | 0% |
| Total Sugars 6.6g | |
| Protein 30.7g | 0% |
| Vitamin D 0IU | 0% |
| Calcium 115.3mg | 0% |
| Iron 9.1mg | 0% |
| Potassium 855.2mg | 0% |
Source of Calories