Italian · serves 2

Pesto Pasta

No cooking beyond boiling water. Green, fast, feels healthy.

20 min Easy Vegetarian

Ingredients

  • 250g pasta
  • 2 cups basil (or spinach + basil)
  • 1/3 cup walnuts or pine nuts
  • 2 garlic cloves
  • 1/2 cup olive oil
  • 1/2 cup parmesan
  • Lemon

Method

  1. Blend basil, nuts, garlic, cheese, salt with olive oil into a coarse paste. Don't over-blend.
  2. Boil the pasta, keep a mug of pasta water.
  3. Take the pan OFF the heat. Never cook pesto, it goes bitter and dull.
  4. Toss hot pasta with pesto and a splash of pasta water.
  5. Lemon, pepper, extra cheese.

Questions people ask about Pesto Pasta

How long does Pesto Pasta take?

About 20 minutes from starting to sitting down, and it is straightforward. That is start-to-finish, so it works on a weeknight when you have not planned anything.

What is the one thing to get right in Pesto Pasta?

Blend basil, nuts, garlic, cheese, salt with olive oil into a coarse paste. Don't over-blend.

What can I use instead of pasta in Pesto Pasta?

Use any short shape holds sauce better than long; cooking time changes, so go by the packet.

Can I make Pesto Pasta ahead of time?

You can prepare it a few hours ahead and reheat gently. It keeps two days in the fridge, though it is best on the day.

Is Pesto Pasta vegetarian?

Yes, and as written it is vegan too. Check your specific brands if that matters to you.

What do you serve with Pesto Pasta?

A green salad and bread. Nothing else needed. It serves two as written. Double everything to feed four, but use a wider pan so the food still browns rather than steams.

Don't know what to cook? Let it decide →

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