There’s something truly magical about a pasta recipe pesto that instantly transports me back to the cozy kitchen of my beloved Mama Lou. The smell of fresh basil, garlic, and pine nuts mingling in her old wooden mortar and pestle was more than just the start of a meal—it was a ritual steeped in love and tradition. Every time I make this pesto recipe, I remember those afternoons spent with my sister Ouma, who would eagerly help tear the basil leaves while Mama Lou shared stories from her childhood. This pasta recipe pesto isn’t just food; it’s a warm embrace, a memory, and a celebration of family all rolled into one vibrant dish.
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Why You’ll Love This pasta recipe pesto
This pasta recipe pesto is a beautiful blend of fresh, simple ingredients that come together to create a sauce bursting with flavor. What I adore most is how quickly it comes together, making it perfect for busy weeknights but also special enough for a Sunday supper with loved ones. It’s a recipe that honors the old ways—like how Mama Lou insisted on using fresh ingredients picked from her garden—and yet, it’s flexible enough for your own kitchen creativity.
Beyond its taste, pesto is one of those sauces that feels like a hug in a bowl. I remember sitting around the table with Ouma, scooping up every last bit of the vibrant green sauce, paired with al dente pasta and a sprinkle of Parmigiano-Reggiano. It’s satisfying, comforting, and endlessly customizable, which is why this pasta recipe pesto will quickly become a staple in your home.
Ingredients You’ll Need for This pasta recipe pesto
- 2 cups fresh basil leaves, packed
- 1/2 cup pine nuts (you can substitute walnuts or almonds if preferred)
- 2 cloves garlic, peeled
- 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup extra-virgin olive oil
- Salt, to taste (start with 1/2 teaspoon)
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Optional: a squeeze of fresh lemon juice to brighten the flavor
- 12 ounces of your favorite pasta (spaghetti, linguine, or penne work beautifully)
Nutrition Facts
- Calories: Approximately 450 per serving (1 cup cooked pasta with pesto)
- Protein: 12g
- Fat: 28g (mostly healthy fats from olive oil and nuts)
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 2g (natural sugars from basil and pasta)
- Sodium: 350mg (can be reduced by adjusting salt and cheese quantity)
Irresistible Pasta Recipe Pesto That Will Elevate Your Dinner Game
Learn how to make delicious pasta recipe pesto. Easy recipe with step-by-step instructions.
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Ingredients
- 2 cups fresh basil leaves, packed
- 1/2 cup pine nuts (you can substitute walnuts or almonds if preferred)
- 2 cloves garlic, peeled
- 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup extra-virgin olive oil
- Salt, to taste (start with 1/2 teaspoon)
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Optional: a squeeze of fresh lemon juice to brighten the flavor
- 12 ounces of your favorite pasta (spaghetti, linguine, or penne work beautifully)
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook your pasta according to the package directions until al dente, typically 8-10 minutes. Drain, reserving about 1 cup of pasta water to help loosen the sauce later.
- While the pasta is cooking, prepare the pesto. In a food processor or blender, combine the basil leaves, pine nuts, and garlic. Pulse until finely chopped.
- Add the grated Parmesan cheese and pulse a few more times to combine.
- With the processor running on low speed, slowly drizzle in the olive oil until the mixture emulsifies into a creamy sauce. If the pesto is too thick, add a tablespoon or two of the reserved pasta water to loosen it.
- Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. If you like, add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice for a subtle brightness that Mama Lou always insisted lifted the flavors.
- Toss the cooked pasta with the pesto sauce in a large bowl, adding more pasta water if necessary to coat every strand beautifully.
- Serve immediately, garnished with extra Parmesan and a few whole pine nuts for crunch.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Cooking
- Cuisine: International
Steps to Create Your pasta recipe pesto
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook your pasta according to the package directions until al dente, typically 8-10 minutes. Drain, reserving about 1 cup of pasta water to help loosen the sauce later.
- While the pasta is cooking, prepare the pesto. In a food processor or blender, combine the basil leaves, pine nuts, and garlic. Pulse until finely chopped.
- Add the grated Parmesan cheese and pulse a few more times to combine.
- With the processor running on low speed, slowly drizzle in the olive oil until the mixture emulsifies into a creamy sauce. If the pesto is too thick, add a tablespoon or two of the reserved pasta water to loosen it.
- Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. If you like, add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice for a subtle brightness that Mama Lou always insisted lifted the flavors.
- Toss the cooked pasta with the pesto sauce in a large bowl, adding more pasta water if necessary to coat every strand beautifully.
- Serve immediately, garnished with extra Parmesan and a few whole pine nuts for crunch.
Tips for Making the Best pasta recipe pesto
- Use fresh basil: The freshest basil you can find makes all the difference. I always pick mine early in the morning from the garden, just like Mama Lou taught me.
- Toast your nuts: Gently toasting pine nuts or your chosen nuts enhances their flavor and adds a subtle nuttiness to the pesto. Just keep an eye on them—they burn quickly!
- Don’t over-blend: Keep the texture a little coarse rather than turning it into a paste. It reminds me of how Mama Lou’s mortar and pestle would leave little bits of basil and nuts visible, adding to the rustic charm.
- Reserve pasta water: This starchy water is pure gold for adjusting the sauce’s consistency and helps the pesto cling beautifully to the pasta.
- Customize your cheese: Parmesan is classic, but feel free to experiment with Pecorino Romano or Grana Padano for a different twist.
Serving Suggestions and Pairings
This pasta recipe pesto shines on its own, but I love turning it into a full meal inspired by the family gatherings that filled Mama Lou’s home. Serve it alongside a crisp green salad tossed with lemon vinaigrette to add freshness, or pair it with roasted vegetables like cherry tomatoes and asparagus for a burst of color and texture. Learn more: Spice Up Your Dinner with This Irresistible Rasta Pasta Jamaican Recipe
For something heartier, grilled chicken or shrimp tossed in a little olive oil and garlic makes a perfect protein addition. One of my favorite memories with Ouma was sitting around the table, passing plates piled high with pesto pasta and slices of crusty bread to mop up every last drop of sauce. It’s in those moments—the laughter, the shared stories—that this dish truly comes alive.
Storage and Reheating Tips
Leftover pasta recipe pesto is a treasure, but it deserves a little extra care when storing and reheating. Here’s what I’ve learned from years of cooking and sharing meals with my family:
- Store leftover pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- If the pesto sauce thickens or clumps, stir in a splash of warm water or olive oil before reheating to restore creaminess.
- Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave in short bursts, stirring often to keep the sauce smooth.
- You can also store pesto sauce separately in the fridge for up to a week or freeze it in ice cube trays for longer storage—perfect for quick weeknight meals.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the main ingredients for pasta recipe pesto?
The main ingredients for pasta recipe pesto include the items listed in our ingredients section above. Each ingredient plays a crucial role in achieving the perfect flavor and texture.
How long does it take to make pasta recipe pesto?
The total time to make pasta recipe pesto includes both preparation and cooking time. Check the recipe card above for exact timing details.
Can I make pasta recipe pesto ahead of time?
Yes, pasta recipe pesto can often be prepared in advance. Store it properly in an airtight container in the refrigerator and consume within the recommended timeframe.
What can I serve with pasta recipe pesto?
pasta recipe pesto pairs well with various sides and accompaniments. Consider the serving suggestions mentioned in the recipe for the best dining experience.
Is pasta recipe pesto suitable for special diets?
Depending on the ingredients used, pasta recipe pesto may be adapted for various dietary needs. Check the ingredients list and consider substitutions as needed for your dietary requirements.
Final Thoughts
Every time I prepare this pasta recipe pesto, I’m reminded of the simple joys of cooking with love and tradition. Mama Lou’s kitchen was a place where food was more than nourishment—it was a way to connect, to celebrate, and to create memories that last a lifetime. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or enjoying a quiet meal, this pesto recipe invites you to slow down, savor every bite, and share a piece of your heart with those around you. I hope it brings you the same warmth and happiness that it has brought me and my family over the years.
