Easy Pasta with Fresh Basil Pesto Recipe

🔥 KITCHEN FINDS

3 Clever Kitchen Gadgets Worth Checking Out

These handy little gadgets make cooking easier — and they're actually pretty cool.

This Kitchen Gadget Sprays AND Pours Oil

One bottle for spraying, pouring and keeping cooking oil close at hand.

Check It Out on Amazon →

This Weird Little Tool Slices Watermelon for You

Slice, cube and grab watermelon with one ridiculously simple little gadget.

Check It Out on Amazon →

Mix & Pour Pancake Batter Without the Mess

Mix the batter right in the bottle, then squeeze it straight onto the griddle.

Check It Out on Amazon →

As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

This Easy Pasta with Fresh Basil Pesto recipe is a delightful weeknight dinner option that’s both quick to prepare and bursting with flavor. The small pasta balls are perfectly complemented by a vibrant basil pesto, creating a dish that’s as enjoyable to eat as it is to make. With fresh ingredients and minimal cooking time, this recipe is perfect for busy evenings when you still want something delicious and satisfying.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This pasta dish is not only easy to whip up but also offers a fresh and zesty flavor profile that will keep you coming back for more. Whether you’re a busy parent or just looking for a simple meal, this recipe checks all the boxes.

• Quick and easy to prepare in under 30 minutes.
• Uses fresh ingredients for a burst of flavor.
• Perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner or casual entertaining.
• Highly customizable with your favorite add-ins.
• Great for meal prepping or leftovers!

Ingredients

• 1 pound small pasta (like gnocchi or orecchiette)
• 1 cup fresh basil leaves, packed
• 1/4 cup pine nuts
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh basil leaves, for garnish
• Additional grated Parmesan, for serving

How to Make Pasta with Basil Pesto

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the small pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of the pasta cooking water, then drain the pasta.
2. While the pasta is cooking, prepare the pesto. In a food processor, combine the fresh basil, pine nuts, Parmesan cheese, and minced garlic. Pulse until finely chopped.
3. With the food processor running, slowly drizzle in the olive oil until the mixture is smooth and creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. In a large mixing bowl, combine the drained pasta with the fresh basil pesto. If the mixture seems too thick, add a little of the reserved pasta cooking water until you reach your desired consistency.
5. Toss until the pasta is well coated with the pesto. Serve immediately, garnished with additional fresh basil leaves and grated Parmesan cheese.

Tips for the Best Results

• Use fresh basil for the best flavor; avoid dried herbs.
• Toast the pine nuts in a dry skillet for a few minutes to enhance their flavor before adding them to the pesto.
• For a creamier pesto, add a tablespoon of heavy cream or a splash of lemon juice for brightness.
• Make sure not to overcook the pasta; al dente is the way to go for the best texture.

Easy Variations

• Swap pine nuts for walnuts or almonds if desired.
• Add cherry tomatoes or sautéed vegetables for extra nutrition and color.
• For a protein boost, mix in grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas.
• Try using different herbs like spinach or arugula for a unique twist on the classic pesto.

What to Serve With It

• A crisp green salad with a lemon vinaigrette.
• Garlic bread or toasted baguette slices for a satisfying side.
• Roasted vegetables for added flavor and nutrition.
• A light white wine like Pinot Grigio complements the dish beautifully.

Storage and Reheating

📚 RECIPE LOVER FINDS

Love Trying New Recipes? Check These Out

Save your favorites, discover something different, or make meal planning a whole lot easier.

❤️ Love This Recipe? Save Your Favorites

Keep all those recipes you actually want to make again together in your own recipe book.

See It on Amazon →

🔥 Yep, Snoop Dogg Has a Cookbook

From Crook to Cook brings Snoop's spin to comfort food, classics and seriously fun recipes.

Check It Out on Amazon →

🥗 100+ Meals You Can Make Ahead

Simple make-ahead recipes and quick-assembly meals for making the week way easier.

See It on Amazon →

As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of olive oil or reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the pasta chewy.

Recipe Card