Description
Indulge in a bowl of Fresh Pesto Pasta with Herbs, where vibrant green strands of pasta intertwine with a rich, aromatic pesto. This dish is a celebration of fresh basil, garlic, and nuts, creating a gourmet experience that’s surprisingly simple to prepare. Perfect for any occasion—whether it’s a casual weeknight dinner or an elegant gathering—this pasta will have everyone asking for seconds.
Ingredients
Scale
- 8 oz pasta (spaghetti or penne)
- 2 cups fresh basil leaves
- 3 garlic cloves
- 1/4 cup pine nuts (lightly toasted)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Make the Pesto: In a food processor, combine the basil leaves, garlic cloves, and pine nuts. Pulse until finely chopped while gradually adding olive oil until smooth.
- Cook the Pasta: Boil a large pot of salted water. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente; reserve some cooking water before draining.
- Combine: In a large bowl, mix the hot pasta with the pesto. Gradually add reserved cooking water for creaminess.
- Add Cheese & Season: Stir in grated Parmesan cheese and season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve: Plate immediately, garnishing with extra cheese or fresh herbs if desired.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Cooking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (200g)
- Calories: 540
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Fat: 38g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 30g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 43g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 13g
- Cholesterol: 15mg