Pasta Recipe

Servings: 2 cups Difficulty: Intermediate
A vibrant basil pesto tossed with fettuccine for a quick, aromatic Italian dinner.
Pasta Recipe recipe image

This classic basil pesto recipe transforms fresh herbs into a rich, aromatic sauce that elevates simple pasta into a gourmet experience. The key lies in the balance of fresh basil, garlic, Parmesan cheese, and toasted walnuts, all bound together with high-quality olive oil. The result is a vibrant green sauce with a pungent garlic kick, nutty depth, and creamy texture. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you crave authentic Italian flavors without spending hours in the kitchen. Toss it with hot fettuccine for a meal that feels indulgent yet remains light and vegetarian-friendly. Serve immediately to enjoy the bright, fresh notes of the basil at their peak.

Pasta Recipe

Difficulty: Intermediate
Servings: 2 cups Calories: 242.9

Description

This classic basil pesto recipe transforms fresh herbs into a rich, aromatic sauce that elevates simple pasta into a gourmet experience. The key lies in the balance of fresh basil, garlic, Parmesan cheese, and toasted walnuts, all bound together with high-quality olive oil. The result is a vibrant green sauce with a pungent garlic kick, nutty depth, and creamy texture. It&# 226;ÂÂs perfect for busy weeknights when you crave authentic Italian flavors without spending hours in the kitchen. Toss it with hot fettuccine for a meal that feels indulgent yet remains light and vegetarian-friendly. Serve immediately to enjoy the bright, fresh notes of the basil at their peak.

Ingredients

Directions

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook fettuccine according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining.
  2. In a food processor or blender, combine fresh basil, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Pulse a few times to chop the basil coarsely.
  3. Add the toasted walnuts and pulse until they are finely chopped but still have some texture.
  4. With the machine running, slowly drizzle in the olive oil until the mixture emulsifies into a thick puree. Do not over-process; tiny pieces of basil should remain visible.
  5. Add the Parmesan cheese and pulse just until blended. Taste and adjust salt if needed.
  6. Toss the hot drained pasta with the pesto, adding reserved pasta water a tablespoon at a time to create a silky sauce that coats the noodles. Serve immediately.

Nutrition Facts

Servings 2 cups


Amount Per Serving
Calories 242.9kcal
% Daily Value *
Total Fat 20.6g32%
Saturated Fat 2.0g10%
Cholesterol 0.0mg0%
Sodium 8.3mg1%
Total Carbohydrate 10.2g4%
Dietary Fiber 5.1g21%
Sugars 1.4g
Protein 10.6g22%

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

Keywords: basil, pesto, pasta, fettuccine, garlic, olive oil, parmesan, walnuts, italian, vegetarian, quick dinner, herb sauce, fresh basil, nuts, blender, food processor, homemade, weeknight meal, comfort food, aromatic
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