This quick and flavorful pasta dish highlights the bright, aromatic notes of fresh basil in a “light” pesto sauce. Unlike traditional heavy cream or oil-drenched versions, this recipe uses reduced chicken broth to create a silky, savory coating that clings beautifully to angel hair, spaghetti, or linguine. The combination of toasted pine nuts, garlic, and Parmesan adds depth and crunch without overwhelming the palate. It is an excellent choice for weeknight dinners when you want a satisfying, restaurant-quality meal on the table in under 35 minutes. Simple ingredients come together to create a dish that is both comforting and fresh.
Pasta With Light Basil Pesto
Description
This quick and flavorful pasta dish highlights the bright, aromatic notes of fresh basil in a "light" pesto sauce. Unlike traditional heavy cream or oil-drenched versions, this recipe uses reduced chicken broth to create a silky, savory coating that clings beautifully to angel hair, spaghetti, or linguine. The combination of toasted pine nuts, garlic, and Parmesan adds depth and crunch without overwhelming the palate. It is an excellent choice for weeknight dinners when you want a satisfying, restaurant-quality meal on the table in under 35 minutes. Simple ingredients come together to create a dish that is both comforting and fresh.Ingredients
Directions
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Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta (angel hair, spaghetti, or linguine) according to package directions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining.
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While the pasta cooks, spread the pine nuts on a foil-lined baking sheet. Place in a 450&# 194;°F (232ðC) oven and toast for 5 to 10 minutes, watching closely until they are evenly golden. Remove immediately to prevent burning.
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In a food processor fitted with the metal blade, combine the fresh basil, toasted pine nuts, grated Parmesan cheese, olive oil, reduced chicken broth, and garlic cloves.
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Pulse the machine on and off rapidly several times until the ingredients are coarsely chopped.
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Scrape down the sides of the work bowl with a spatula.
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Process continuously until the pesto is smooth and well combined. If the mixture seems too thick, pulse in a small amount of hot water or reserved pasta water to reach desired consistency.
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Drain the cooked pasta and immediately return it to the pot. Add the pesto sauce and toss vigorously to coat the noodles evenly. Serve immediately.
Nutrition Facts
Servings 4
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 41.4kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 1.1g2%
- Saturated Fat 0.2g1%
- Cholesterol 0.0mg0%
- Sodium 7.2mg1%
- Total Carbohydrate 4.9g2%
- Dietary Fiber 2.9g12%
- Sugars 0.5g
- Protein 5.8g12%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
