Why You’ll Love This Basil Pesto Pasta Recipe
There’s something incredibly comforting about the fresh, herbaceous flavor of basil pesto paired with the richness of pasta. This Basil Pesto Pasta recipe takes the classic to new heights, with a burst of citrusy lemon, crunchy pine nuts, and the perfect finishing touch of parmesan. It’s the kind of meal that feels light yet satisfying, and it comes together quickly for an easy weeknight dinner or a special occasion. Whether you’re a pesto lover or new to the dish, this recipe is sure to become a favorite.
A Fresh Take on a Classic Favorite
Pasta with basil pesto is a timeless favorite, but this recipe adds a refreshing twist by incorporating lemon. The citrus brings a bright zing that cuts through the richness of the pesto, creating a balanced, vibrant dish. The pine nuts add a delightful crunch, while the parmesan elevates the flavor, making every bite even more satisfying. Simple ingredients, packed with fresh flavors, come together for a meal that’s both comforting and refreshing.
Ingredients Breakdown
- Pasta: Choose your favorite pasta shape for this recipe – spaghetti, fusilli, or penne all work well. The pasta soaks up the pesto beautifully, giving each bite a burst of flavor.
- Basil Pesto: The star of the show, this rich pesto sauce is made with fresh basil, garlic, pine nuts, olive oil, and parmesan. It’s a vibrant, creamy sauce that ties everything together.
- Lemon: Adds a burst of freshness that cuts through the richness of the pesto, giving the dish a light and zesty finish.
- Pine Nuts: These little nuts bring a delightful crunch and a nutty flavor that complements the smoothness of the pesto sauce.
- Parmesan: A sprinkle of parmesan takes this dish over the top, adding a salty, savory finish that ties the flavors together beautifully.
Tips for the Perfect Basil Pesto Pasta
- Use Fresh Basil: For the best pesto, fresh basil is a must. The vibrant green leaves give the pesto its signature flavor and aroma.
- Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Be sure to cook the pasta al dente, as it will continue to cook slightly when tossed with the hot pesto. You want it to have a little bite for the perfect texture.
- Adjust the Lemon: If you love citrus, feel free to add extra lemon juice or zest. It brings such a refreshing contrast to the pesto that you can tailor it to your taste.
- Toss the Pasta While Hot: Make sure to toss the pasta with the pesto while it’s still hot. The warmth helps the sauce cling to the pasta better, making every bite flavorful.
Serving Suggestions
This Basil Pesto Pasta makes a fantastic main dish, but it also pairs wonderfully with a side salad or roasted vegetables. Serve it with a crisp, refreshing green salad with a light vinaigrette to balance the richness of the pesto. A side of garlic bread or warm baguette is also a great choice to soak up any leftover pesto sauce.
Make It Your Own
This recipe is highly versatile. You can swap the pasta for gluten-free options, such as rice noodles or chickpea pasta, to accommodate dietary needs. If you want to make the dish more hearty, consider adding grilled chicken or shrimp for a protein boost. You can also experiment with other nuts like walnuts or cashews for a different flavor profile.
Storing and Reheating
Leftover Basil Pesto Pasta can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of olive oil or water to loosen the sauce if needed. This dish doesn’t freeze well due to the pesto’s texture, but it’s easy to make in batches and store for quick meals later in the week.
A Fresh, Flavorful Meal Anytime
This Basil Pesto Pasta is the perfect balance of fresh, creamy, and crunchy flavors, all tied together by the rich, aromatic pesto sauce. Whether you’re making it for a family dinner or hosting a dinner party, this dish is sure to impress. It’s light, flavorful, and so easy to prepare, making it a perfect addition to your recipe collection.
Creamy Basil Pesto Pasta
Ingredients
- 300 grams pasta (shape of your choice)
- 1-2 tbsp olive oil
- 3 garlic cloves
- 500 grams cottage cheese
- 180 grams basil pesto
- ½ cup grated parmesan cheese
- 2 tbsp pine nuts
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- ¼ cup reserved pasta water
Garnish:
- Grated parmesan
- Toasted pine nuts
- Lemon zest
Instructions
- Boil the pasta (300g) according to the instructions on the package. Before draining, save about ¼ cup of the pasta water and set it aside.
- Heat a dry pan over medium heat. Add the pine nuts (2 tbsp) and toast them for about 2-3 minutes, or until golden and fragrant. Once done, remove from the pan and set aside.
- Place the cottage cheese (500g) in a blender or food processor and blend until smooth and creamy.
- Heat olive oil (1-2 tbsp) in the same pan over medium heat. Add the chopped garlic (3 cloves) and sauté for 1-2 minutes until aromatic but not browned.
- Add the blended cottage cheese and basil pesto (180g) to the pan with the garlic. Let it simmer for about 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Gradually add the grated parmesan cheese (½ cup), lemon juice (1 tbsp), and the reserved pasta water (¼ cup) to the pan. Stir until you achieve the desired sauce consistency. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Add the cooked pasta to the pan, tossing it well to coat in the creamy pesto sauce. Stir in the toasted pine nuts.
- Garnish the dish with extra toasted pine nuts, grated parmesan, and lemon zest for a fresh, zesty finish.
Ready to Enjoy This Flavorful Dish?
Once you’ve tried this Basil Pesto Pasta, you’ll want to make it again and again. Share your creation on social media and tag us to show off your delicious dish! Don’t forget to leave a review below and let us know how you made this recipe your own.
Hungry for More?
If you enjoyed this recipe, be sure to explore our other delightful dishes. From vibrant salads to indulgent pastas, we’ve got plenty of tasty options for every occasion. Happy cooking!