Fresh, aromatic and full of flavour, this easy pesto pasta combines perfectly cooked pasta with a vibrant homemade basil pesto.
Ingredients
- 300 g pasta, such as spaghetti, penne or fusilli
- Salt, as needed
- ½ cup reserved pasta water
- 2 cups fresh basil leaves
- 2 garlic cloves
- ¼ cup pine nuts or walnuts
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ cup extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- Salt, to taste
- ¼ tsp black pepper
Preparation
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente.
- Reserve ½ cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta.
- Add basil, garlic, pine nuts or walnuts, Parmesan, lemon juice, salt and black pepper to a blender or food processor.
- Blend while gradually adding olive oil until the pesto is smooth but slightly textured.
- Add the cooked pasta to a large pan or bowl.
- Add the pesto and toss well to evenly coat the pasta.
- Add a little reserved pasta water as needed to loosen the sauce and give it a silky consistency.
- Serve immediately.
Serving suggestion
Serve pesto pasta warm, topped with fresh basil leaves, and grated Parmesan. Pair with toasted garlic bread.
