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Easy Pesto Pasta

A vibrant dish bursting with flavors of fresh basil, garlic, and parmesan, perfect for quick weeknight dinners and special occasions.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 350
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Pasta Ingredients
  • 12 oz pasta Any pasta shape can be used.
Pesto Ingredients
  • 1/4 cup pine nuts Toast for enhanced flavor.
  • 2 cloves garlic Essential for aromatic kick.
  • 1 whole lemon Juice is used for zest.
  • 2 cups fresh basil leaves The star ingredient for flavor.
  • 1/2 cup parmesan cheese Provides depth and richness.
  • 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil Used for blending the pesto.
  • extra as needed parmesan For serving and better flavor.
  • extra as needed fresh basil For garnish.
  • extra as needed pine nuts For garnish, if desired.

Method
 

Cooking the Pasta
  1. Cook the pasta according to package directions. Reserve 1 cup of the pasta water, then drain and set aside.
Toasting Pine Nuts
  1. Toast the pine nuts in a dry skillet for a few minutes until they start to darken in color (optional but recommended).
Making the Pesto
  1. Add the toasted pine nuts, garlic, and lemon juice to a food processor and pulse until broken up (about 10 times).
  2. Add the basil and parmesan and pulse until the basil is in small pieces (about 10 pulses).
  3. With the food processor on low speed, slowly drizzle in the olive oil. Add more oil as desired for a smoother consistency. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Combining Pasta and Pesto
  1. Toss the cooked pasta with the pesto, adding reserved pasta water a small splash at a time until the desired consistency is reached.
  2. Enjoy your dish!

Notes

Use fresh basil for the best flavor. Adjust lemon juice to taste. Reserve pasta water for perfect sauce consistency. Consider adding protein like chicken or shrimp.