Homemade Basil Pesto Pasta

This Homemade Basil Pesto Pasta is fresh, vibrant, and packed with classic Italian flavor. It starts with a quick homemade pesto made from basil, toasted pine nuts, Parmesan cheese, garlic, olive oil, and seasoning. Blended to your preferred texture, it’s then tossed with your favorite cooked pasta to create a bright, nutty, and savory dish. Simple, elegant, and satisfying—this is a go-to meal for busy weeknights or summer dinners that feel gourmet without the fuss.

Author: These Carbs Don't Count

Meal Type: Peanuts Free

Cuisine: Italian

Difficulty: MEDIUM

Prep. Time: 10 minutes

Cook Time: 10 minutes

Total Time: 20 minutes

Servings: 2 bowls

Calories: 1,494 kcal per serving

Ingredients

2 cups - fresh basil leaves
¼ cup - pine nuts
¾ cup - grated Parmesan cheese
¾ cup - olive oil
1 clove - garlic
¼ tsp - salt
¼ tsp - black pepper
½ lb - pasta

Instructions

In a food processor, add basil, pine nuts, Parmesan, garlic, salt, and pepper.
Blend on high while slowly drizzling in olive oil until the mixture becomes smooth but still textured.
Taste and adjust seasoning or olive oil for desired consistency.
Cook pasta in salted boiling water until al dente. Reserve 1 cup pasta water and drain the rest.
Toss hot pasta with the pesto. Add a splash of pasta water as needed to loosen the sauce and coat evenly.
Serve warm with extra Parmesan and a drizzle of olive oil if desired.

Nutrition