Basil Pesto Spaghetti with Toasted Pine Nuts
Al dente spaghetti tossed in vibrant homemade basil pesto, garnished with toasted pine nuts and Parmesan for a fresh, fragrant pasta dish. This italian-inspired pasta (vegetarian) ready in about 20 minutes blends spaghetti, packed fresh basil leaves, 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 520 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.
Ingredients
- 12 oz spaghetti
- 2 cups packed fresh basil leaves
- 1/4 cup pine nuts
- 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 2, minced garlic cloves
- 1/2 cup olive oil
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
Instructions
- Step 1: Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add 12 oz spaghetti and cook for 8-10 minutes until al dente. Drain pasta, reserving 1/2 cup pasta water.
- Step 2: Meanwhile, toast 1/4 cup pine nuts in a dry skillet over medium heat for 3-4 minutes, stirring frequently until golden and fragrant. Remove and set aside.
- Step 3: In a food processor, combine 2 cups packed fresh basil leaves, 2 minced garlic cloves, 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, 1 tsp salt, 1/4 tsp black pepper, and 1 tbsp lemon juice. Pulse while slowly drizzling in 1/2 cup olive oil until a smooth, vibrant pesto forms.
- Step 4: Toss the drained spaghetti with the pesto and add reserved pasta water a few tablespoons at a time until the sauce coats the noodles evenly.
- Step 5: Serve topped with toasted pine nuts and additional Parmesan if desired.
Frequently asked questions
How long does Basil Pesto Spaghetti with Toasted Pine Nuts take to make?
Total time is about 20 minutes (10 min prep + 10 min cook). A small batch typically covers several meals in the week — store as the recipe directs.
How do I store leftover Basil Pesto Spaghetti with Toasted Pine Nuts?
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 Basil Pesto Spaghetti with Toasted Pine Nuts?
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 Basil Pesto Spaghetti with Toasted Pine Nuts 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.
Is Basil Pesto Spaghetti with Toasted Pine Nuts vegetarian?
Yes — this recipe is tagged vegetarian based on its ingredient list. Always cross-check labels for packaged ingredients (sauces, broths, condiments) since formulations vary by brand.
What others are saying
- ★★★★★
Loved the simplicity and the fresh taste. Served with a glass of wine and it was perfect.
- ★★★★★
This was the best pesto I've ever made! The pine nuts were golden and the basil was fragrant.
- ★★★★☆
Simple and delicious, just as the recipe says.
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