Vegetarian Pasta with Pesto Sauce

Looking for a quick and delicious vegetarian pasta dish? Look no further than our simple yet impressive Vegetarian Pasta with Pesto Sauce recipe! This sauce is not only easy to make but also provides a burst of freshness that complements the al dente noodles perfectly. If you're looking to prepare a meal that's both satisfying and healthy, this is it.

The total cooking time for this dish is around 25 minutes, which includes boiling the pasta and simmering the sauce. It serves four hearty portions, making it perfect for a family dinner or even as part of a potluck. The preparation involves simple steps that any beginner cook can follow with ease. Let's dive into how to make this delightful meal!

Ingredients

1 pound (450g) of your favorite pasta shape, such as penne or fusilli.
3 cups fresh basil leaves.
1/2 cup pine nuts.
2 garlic cloves, finely chopped.
Zest and juice from 1 lemon.
2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil.
Salt to taste.

Steps to Prepare Vegetarian Pasta with Pesto Sauce

Step 1: Boil the pasta. Start by bringing a large pot of water to a boil. Add salt and your favorite pasta type, then cook until al dente according to package instructions (usually about 8-10 minutes). Drain well once done and set aside.

Step 2: Prepare the pesto sauce. While the pasta is boiling, prepare the sauce by toasting pine nuts. Heat a small pan over medium heat; add the pine nuts and toast until golden brown (about 3-5 minutes). Remove from heat and let cool slightly before coarsely chopping them with a knife or food processor.

Next, in a food processor bowl, combine the toasted pine nuts, finely chopped garlic cloves, fresh basil leaves, lemon zest, extra-virgin olive oil, and salt. Blend until smooth but still has some texture (do not overprocess). Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.

Serving Suggestions

This pasta dish can be served with a variety of toppings to suit your taste. Some popular additions include grated Parmesan cheese, sun-dried tomatoes for a bit of sweetness and depth, or even a sprinkle of nutritional yeast for added creaminess without dairy. Serve immediately alongside a fresh green salad to complete the meal.

Health Benefits

Pesto sauce is a rich source of antioxidants from the basil leaves and healthy fats from pine nuts. Pine nuts are particularly high in omega-3 fatty acids, which help reduce inflammation throughout your body while supporting heart health. Fresh herbs like basil also promote good digestion.

Storage Tips

If you have any leftovers, this pasta can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days or frozen for up to two months. Thaw completely before reheating gently on low heat as boiling could break down the delicate ingredients of the pesto sauce.

Conclusion

A quick, versatile vegetarian pasta with a pesto sauce can be both nutritious and delicious. Try this recipe today and enjoy a satisfying meal that is easy to prepare yet packed full of flavors! Whether you're hosting friends or simply treating yourself at home, this dish will impress everyone who tries it.