Low Sodium Pasta with Pesto Sauce
Indulge in the vibrant flavors of this Low Sodium Pasta with Pesto Sauce, a heart-healthy twist on a classic Italian favorite. This recipe features whole wheat pasta tossed in a fresh, homemade pesto made with fragrant basil leaves, unsalted pine nuts, zesty lemon juice, and a touch of olive oil for a creamy, luscious texture—all without the added salt. Optional Parmesan cheese adds a layer of richness, while crushed black pepper enhances the flavor profile. Quick to prepare in under 30 minutes, this dish is perfect for a wholesome weeknight dinner. Garnish with juicy cherry tomatoes for a burst of color and tangy sweetness. Enjoy a delicious, low-sodium pasta dish that's as nourishing as it is satisfying!
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Ingredients
- 12 ounces Whole wheat pasta
- 2 cups Fresh basil leaves
- 0.25 cup Unsalted pine nuts
- 2 medium Garlic cloves
- 2 tablespoons Fresh lemon juice
- 0.25 cup Olive oil
- 0.25 cup Parmesan cheese, grated (optional for added flavor)
- 0.5 teaspoon Crushed black pepper
- 0.5 cup Water (pasta cooking water)
- 1 cup Cherry tomatoes (optional for garnish)
Directions
Step 1
Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Add the 12 ounces of whole wheat pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, usually around 9-10 minutes. Reserve 1/2 cup of the pasta cooking water, then drain the pasta and set it aside.
Step 2
While the pasta cooks, prepare the pesto. In a food processor, combine 2 cups of fresh basil leaves, 1/4 cup of unsalted pine nuts, 2 medium garlic cloves, and 2 tablespoons of fresh lemon juice. Pulse until the mixture is mostly smooth.
Step 3
With the processor running, slowly drizzle in 1/4 cup of olive oil until the pesto is smooth and well combined. Add in 0.25 cup of grated Parmesan cheese, if using, and 0.5 teaspoon of crushed black pepper, and pulse to combine.
Step 4
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta and prepared pesto sauce. Add the reserved pasta cooking water a little at a time to help the pesto coat the pasta evenly and create a silky sauce.
Step 5
Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary, keeping in mind the low sodium requirement.
Step 6
Optionally, halve 1 cup of cherry tomatoes and scatter them on top for a fresh, colorful garnish.
Step 7
Serve immediately, garnished with extra basil leaves if desired.
Nutrition Facts
| Serving size | (825.5g) |
|---|
| Amount per serving | % Daily Value* |
|---|---|
| Calories | 1436.0 |
| Total Fat 94.7g | 0% |
| Saturated Fat 21.3g | 0% |
| Polyunsaturated Fat 5.3g | |
| Cholesterol 35.7mg | 0% |
| Sodium 929.8mg | 0% |
| Total Carbohydrate 110.4g | 0% |
| Dietary Fiber 20.1g | 0% |
| Total Sugars 8.8g | |
| Protein 48.4g | 0% |
| Vitamin D 23.8IU | 0% |
| Calcium 798.0mg | 0% |
| Iron 8.5mg | 0% |
| Potassium 1314.6mg | 0% |
Source of Calories