Authentic Pesto Genovese with Fresh Pasta

By , Test Kitchen Director · Reviewed by AislePrompt Editorial · ·

A vibrant, herbaceous pesto made the traditional way with Genovese basil, pine nuts, and Parmesan, tossed with freshly made pasta for a true Italian experience. This italian-inspired pasta ready in about 27 minutes blends Genovese basil, freshly grated Parmesan cheese, pine nuts into a versatile sauce that lifts everything from grain bowls and roasted vegetables to grilled proteins — a small-batch staple worth keeping in the fridge. Each serving lands at about 580 calories and feeds 4, so a small batch covers several meals across the week without taking over the fridge. Tap "Plan a meal with the AI" below to drop this recipe into your week and send the ingredients straight to Instacart. Nutrition values are approximate, calculated from USDA FoodData Central (fdc.nal.usda.gov) — verify against ingredient labels for any health-driven dietary plan.

Prep: 15 min Cook: 12 min Serves 4 Italian cuisine 580 cal/serving
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Ingredients

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Instructions

  1. Step 1: Place basil, pine nuts, garlic, and 1/4 cup Parmesan in a food processor. Pulse until finely chopped, then gradually add 1/4 cup olive oil while processing until smooth, scraping down sides as needed. Transfer to a bowl and stir in 1/4 cup reserved pasta water and chopped olives.
  2. Step 2: Bring a large pot of salted water (1 tbsp salt) to a rolling boil. Add 12 oz spaghetti and cook for 8-10 minutes until al dente, reserving 1/2 cup pasta water before draining.
  3. Step 3: Add drained spaghetti to the pesto bowl and toss vigorously for 2 minutes over low heat, adding reserved pasta water 1 tbsp at a time until the sauce coats the pasta evenly and becomes glossy.
  4. Step 4: Divide pasta among warm bowls, top with remaining 1/4 cup Parmesan, and serve immediately with extra olive oil drizzled on top.

Frequently asked questions

How long does Authentic Pesto Genovese with Fresh Pasta take to make?

Total time is about 27 minutes (15 min prep + 12 min cook). A small batch typically covers several meals in the week — store as the recipe directs.

How do I store leftover Authentic Pesto Genovese with Fresh Pasta?

Transfer to an airtight jar and refrigerate for up to 5–7 days. Most sauces freeze well for up to 2 months — portion into small containers or freezer bags so you can thaw only what you need. Stir before serving; cream- or yogurt-based sauces may separate on standing.

Can I substitute ingredients in Authentic Pesto Genovese with Fresh Pasta?

Yes — most ingredients in this recipe have flexible swaps. For oil, use any neutral high-smoke-point oil (avocado, grapeseed, refined coconut). For aromatics, dried herbs at ⅓ the volume of fresh work in a pinch. The full ingredient list is shoppable on Instacart so you can see substitutes in real time.

How do I scale Authentic Pesto Genovese with Fresh Pasta for a different number of people?

The recipe is written for 4 servings. Multiply each ingredient by (your serving target / 4). Cook time stays roughly the same up to 2x; for 3-4x batches, switch from a skillet to a sheet pan or stockpot so the food isn't crowded — overcrowding steams instead of browns.

What goes well with Authentic Pesto Genovese with Fresh Pasta?

Italian pasta like this pair well with a simple grain (rice, couscous, or crusty bread), a quick salad with acid (lemon vinaigrette, pickled onions), and a pan sauce or yogurt-based dip. Tap "Plan a meal with the AI" to get specific side suggestions.

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