Description
15 Minute Pesto Pasta is a vibrant and flavorful dish that captures the essence of Italian cuisine. In just 15 minutes, you’ll enjoy al dente pasta tossed in a fresh basil pesto that brings together aromatic garlic, nutty pine nuts, and the rich taste of parmesan cheese. This quick and easy recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or impressing guests with minimal effort. Get ready to elevate your dinner experience with this delightful meal!
Ingredients
Scale
- 8 oz spaghetti or penne
- 2 cups fresh basil leaves
- 3 garlic cloves
- 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup pine nuts (or walnuts)
- 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Boil water in a large pot and add salt.
- Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
- In a food processor, blend basil, garlic, pine nuts, and parmesan until finely chopped.
- Slowly drizzle in olive oil while blending until smooth.
- Reserve 1 cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta without rinsing.
- Combine the pasta with the pesto in the pot over low heat. If needed, add reserved pasta water gradually.
- Serve with extra parmesan and fresh basil as garnish.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Boiling and blending
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 540
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 350mg
- Fat: 32g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 24g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 15mg