Delicious Homemade Pesto Pasta Recipe

Pesto pasta is a beloved Italian dish that combines simple ingredients with bold flavors. The star of the recipe is the vibrant green pesto sauce, made from basil, pine nuts, garlic, olive oil, and Parmesan cheese. Tossed with perfectly cooked pasta, this dish delivers a rich, nutty, and aromatic flavour that is both refreshing and satisfying.

Pesto Pasta Recipe:

Perfect for quick weeknight dinners or elegant gatherings, pesto pasta is versatile and easy to prepare. It can be enjoyed warm or cold, making it a staple in Italian-inspired kitchens around the world.

History:

Pesto pasta originates from the Liguria region of Northern Italy, particularly from the city of Genoa. The word “pesto” comes from the Italian verb pestare, meaning “to pound” or “to crush.” Traditionally, pesto was made using a mortar and pestle, blending basil, garlic, pine nuts, Parmesan cheese, and olive oil. Over time, it became a staple sauce in Italian cuisine, celebrated for its vibrant green colour and aromatic flavours. Today, pesto pasta is enjoyed globally and remains a symbol of authentic Italian cooking.

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Pesto pasta

Shruthi

Pesto pasta offers a unique balance of freshness and richness. The basil provides a fragrant, herbal base, while the Parmesan and pine nuts add creaminess and depth. Unlike heavy cream-based sauces, pesto delivers a lighter and healthier option.

Print Recipe

Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 10 minutes mins

Total Time 20 minutes mins

Course Main Course, Side Dish

Cuisine Italian

Servings 4

Calories 110 kcal

Ingredients

  

• 12 oz pasta of your choice (spaghetti, penne, or fusilli)
• 2 cups fresh basil leaves
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/3 cup pine nuts (or walnuts as an alternative)
• 2 garlic cloves
• 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional: cherry tomatoes, grilled chicken, or shrimp

Instructions

 

• Cook the Pasta

  Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving half a cup of pasta water.
• Make the Pesto Sauce

  In a food processor, blend basil, pine nuts, garlic, and Parmesan. Slowly add olive oil until smooth and creamy. Season with salt and pepper.
• Combine and Serve

  Toss the hot pasta with the fresh pesto. Add reserved pasta water if needed for a silky texture. Garnish with cherry tomatoes or extra cheese before serving.

Notes

• Pair your pesto pasta with garlic bread and a green salad for a complete Italian meal.
• For added protein, grilled chicken or shrimp makes a perfect topping.
• You can also mix in roasted vegetables such as zucchini, bell peppers, or mushrooms for a hearty vegetarian version.

 

Keyword authentic Italian pasta, Basil pesto pasta, Easy pasta dinner, healthy pasta dish, Homemade pesto sauce, Pesto pasta recipe, Quick Italian recipes

Tips for the Perfect  Pasta:

• Use fresh basil leaves for the best aroma.

• Toast pine nuts lightly to enhance their nutty flavour.

• Add pasta water gradually to achieve the right consistency.

• Always use high-quality extra virgin olive oil.

• Serve immediately to enjoy its vibrant taste.

FAQ’s for  Pasta:

Q: Can I store pesto pasta?
Yes, refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to three days.

Q: Can I freeze pesto?
Absolutely. Store pesto in ice cube trays and freeze for long-term use.

Q: Which pasta works best?
Spaghetti, linguine, penne, and fusilli all pair well with pesto sauce.

Q: Is  pasta vegetarian?
Yes, but use vegetarian Parmesan alternatives if needed.