This Pesto Pasta recipe is the perfect blend of simplicity and gourmet flavor. Featuring a creamy, vibrant pesto sauce made from fresh basil, garlic, Parmesan cheese, pine nuts, and olive oil, it pairs beautifully with al dente pasta for a quick, satisfying meal. Perfect for busy weeknights, date nights, or a comforting lunch, this dish can be made in under 20 minutes. Customize it with grilled chicken, shrimp, or roasted veggies for added protein and nutrients.
Easy Homemade Pesto Pasta (Fresh & Flavorful)
Description
A vibrant and creamy basil pesto sauce tossed with hot pasta and topped with extra Parmesan cheese. It's quick, customizable, and irresistibly delicious!
Ingredients
For the Pesto:
For the Pasta:
Optional Toppings:
Instructions
- 1. Boil Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve about 1/4 cup of the pasta water before draining.
- 2. Make the Pesto: While pasta cooks, add basil, pine nuts, garlic, and Parmesan to a food processor or blender. Pulse until finely chopped. With the motor running, slowly drizzle in olive oil until smooth and creamy. Season with salt, pepper, and optional lemon juice.
- 3. Toss and Combine: Return drained pasta to the pot. Add the pesto and a splash of reserved pasta water. Toss until evenly coated and glossy.
- 4. Serve: Divide among bowls and top with extra Parmesan, pine nuts, or optional protein. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Nutrition Facts
Servings 4
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 410kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 24g37%
- Saturated Fat 4g20%
- Cholesterol 10mg4%
- Sodium 180mg8%
- Total Carbohydrate 36g12%
- Dietary Fiber 3g12%
- Sugars 2g
- Protein 12g24%
- Calcium 130 mg
- Iron 2 mg
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Note
📦 Storage Notes:
Store leftover pesto pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or enjoy cold as a pasta salad.
Freeze leftover pesto (without the pasta) in ice cube trays and transfer to a bag for up to 3 months.
📝 Notes:
- Nut-free option: Substitute sunflower seeds or omit nuts altogether.
- Dairy-free version: Use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan.
- Add-ins: Try grilled chicken, shrimp, sun-dried tomatoes, or arugula.
