Basil pesto pasta is a quick, vibrant dish that bursts with fresh, aromatic flavors. This homemade pesto transforms simple pasta into a restaurant-quality meal that’s perfect for weeknights or special dinner parties. The richness of the Parmesan, the earthiness of the garlic, and the crispness of the pine nuts blend seamlessly to create a truly satisfying dish that will become a staple in your kitchen.
Ingredients Overview
The key to a flavorful pesto is the quality of the basil. Fresh basil leaves provide the aromatic, grassy flavor that forms the heart of this dish. The Parmesan cheese brings a rich, umami-packed depth, while garlic adds a savory kick that complements the pesto’s bright green base. Pine nuts, toasted to enhance their natural flavor, add a nutty crunch, giving the pesto a texture that’s both smooth and satisfying.
Extra virgin olive oil is essential to bind the pesto together, and it also infuses the sauce with a fruity richness that elevates the other ingredients. If you’re looking for an alternative, consider substituting walnuts for pine nuts, or try nutritional yeast as a dairy-free alternative to Parmesan for a vegan twist. The classic balance of these ingredients will make a pesto that is rich and full of flavor.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Combining the Ingredients:
Start by adding the basil, Parmesan cheese, garlic, toasted pine nuts, kosher salt, and black pepper to a food processor or blender. Pulse the ingredients until they’re finely chopped, allowing the flavors to start mingling.
Drizzling the Olive Oil:
With the food processor or blender still running, slowly drizzle in the extra virgin olive oil. This will help emulsify the mixture, creating a smooth consistency. Continue blending until the pesto reaches a creamy texture, scraping down the sides as needed to ensure even blending.
Achieving the Perfect Consistency:
Once the pesto is smooth, taste it and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed. If you prefer a thinner pesto, add a little more olive oil to reach your desired consistency.
Serving and Storing:
Serve the pesto immediately by tossing it with your favorite pasta, ensuring each strand is coated with the vibrant sauce. If you’re not using the pesto right away, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep fresh for several days.
Recipe Tips
How to Keep Pesto Vibrant Green:
To preserve the vibrant green color, use freshly picked basil leaves and avoid over-processing. A small splash of lemon juice can also help maintain the brightness.
Adjusting the Texture:
If your pesto is too thick, simply drizzle in a bit more olive oil until you reach the desired texture. Conversely, if it’s too thin, reduce the olive oil slightly or add more pine nuts for a thicker consistency.
Enhancing the Flavor:
For an extra boost of flavor, lightly toast the pine nuts before adding them to the blender. This will intensify their nuttiness and deepen the overall flavor of the pesto. A pinch of red pepper flakes can also add a subtle heat.
Prepping in Advance:
Pesto can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator. Let the flavors meld together for an even more flavorful experience. You can also freeze pesto in an ice cube tray for easy, portioned servings.
What to Serve With This Recipe
Pasta Pairings:
Pair the pesto with traditional pasta shapes like linguine, spaghetti, or penne. The pesto also works wonderfully as a filling for stuffed pasta like ravioli or tortellini.
Side Dishes:
Serve alongside a light arugula salad with a simple lemon vinaigrette or roasted vegetables like cherry tomatoes and zucchini. These sides will complement the richness of the pesto and add variety to your meal.
Proteins and Extras:
For a heartier meal, add grilled chicken, shrimp, or seared scallops on top of the pesto pasta. Roasted cherry tomatoes or sautéed mushrooms can also be tossed in for added flavor and texture.
Beverage Suggestions:
A crisp white wine such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio works well with the freshness of the basil and the richness of the Parmesan. If you prefer a non-alcoholic beverage, sparkling water with a splash of lemon or cucumber is a refreshing choice.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different herb instead of basil?
Yes, you can use parsley, arugula, or spinach, although the flavor will be different. Each herb adds its unique characteristics to the pesto.
What if I don’t have pine nuts?
Walnuts, almonds, or sunflower seeds can be used as substitutes for pine nuts. These will still provide the essential nutty texture and flavor.
How long does pesto keep in the fridge?
Pesto can be stored in an airtight container for 3-5 days. If stored properly, the flavor will improve as it sits.
Can I freeze pesto?
Yes, pesto can be frozen. Pour it into an ice cube tray, freeze, and then transfer the cubes to a freezer-safe bag. They will keep for up to 3 months.
How do I keep pesto from turning brown?
To prevent browning, cover the surface of the pesto with a thin layer of olive oil before storing it in the fridge. Adding a splash of lemon juice will also help preserve the color.
Storage and Make-Ahead Options
Refrigeration Tips:
Store pesto in an airtight container in the fridge for 3-5 days. A layer of plastic wrap directly on the surface of the pesto can help reduce exposure to air, which prevents oxidation.
Freezing the Pesto:
For longer storage, freeze pesto in individual servings by placing it in an ice cube tray. Once frozen, transfer the cubes to a resealable bag and store them for up to 3 months. Simply defrost the portions as needed for future meals.
Preparing in Advance:
You can make the pesto a day ahead to allow the flavors to develop further. If preparing pasta in advance, cook it al dente, toss with a bit of olive oil, and store separately until ready to combine with the pesto.
Basil pesto pasta is an easy yet elegant dish that can bring a burst of freshness to any meal. It’s the perfect choice for a quick weeknight dinner or a sophisticated option to serve at your next gathering. The combination of fresh basil, Parmesan, and pine nuts creates a complex, aromatic flavor that works beautifully with pasta. This recipe is versatile—feel free to adjust the ingredients and explore different pasta shapes or even other nuts. With a few simple ingredients and steps, you can create a delicious and impressive dish that’s perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
2 1/2 cups fresh basil leaves, washed and dried thoroughly
2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
3 garlic cloves, roughly chopped
2 tablespoons pine nuts, toasted and cooled
1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
1/8 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
Instructions
In a food processor or blender, combine the fresh basil leaves, grated Parmesan, garlic, toasted pine nuts, kosher salt, and black pepper. Pulse the ingredients together until they are finely chopped and well combined.
With the food processor or blender still running, slowly drizzle in the extra virgin olive oil. Continue blending, stopping to scrape down the sides if needed, until the pesto achieves a smooth, creamy consistency. Taste the pesto and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if necessary.
Serve immediately with your favorite pasta or store in an airtight container in the refrigerator until you’re ready to use it. This fresh and vibrant pesto will add a burst of flavor to any dish!
Basil Pesto Pasta Recipe
Ingredients
- 2 1/2 cups fresh basil leaves washed and dried thoroughly
- 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
- 3 garlic cloves roughly chopped
- 2 tablespoons pine nuts toasted and cooled
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/8 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
Instructions
- In a food processor or blender, combine the fresh basil leaves, grated Parmesan, garlic, toasted pine nuts, kosher salt, and black pepper. Pulse the ingredients together until they are finely chopped and well combined.
- With the food processor or blender still running, slowly drizzle in the extra virgin olive oil. Continue blending, stopping to scrape down the sides if needed, until the pesto achieves a smooth, creamy consistency. Taste the pesto and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if necessary.
- Serve immediately with your favorite pasta or store in an airtight container in the refrigerator until you’re ready to use it. This fresh and vibrant pesto will add a burst of flavor to any dish!
