Best-Best Basil Pesto Pasta

By AislePrompt Test Kitchen · Reviewed by AislePrompt Editorial · ·

A vibrant and aromatic pasta dish featuring fresh basil pesto, creamy cheese, and tender pasta. This italian-inspired pasta (vegetarian) ready in about 35 minutes blends spaghetti pasta, fresh, packed basil, grated parmesan cheese 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 450 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.

★ 4.0 (12 ratings) Prep: 25 min Cook: 10 min Serves 4 Italian cuisine 450 cal/serving
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Ingredients

Instructions

  1. Step 1: Cook 12 oz spaghetti in a large pot of salted boiling water according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and reserve 1/2 cup pasta water.
  2. Step 2: In a food processor, combine 1 cup fresh basil, 1/2 cup grated parmesan, 2 minced garlic cloves, 1/4 cup olive oil, 1 tbsp lemon juice, 1 tsp salt, and 1/2 tsp pepper. Pulse until smooth.
  3. Step 3: Toss 12 oz cooked pasta with 1/2 cup pesto mixture, adding 1/2 cup pasta water as needed to loosen the sauce.
  4. Step 4: Serve immediately, garnished with additional parmesan and basil leaves.

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Frequently asked questions

How long does Best-Best Basil Pesto Pasta take to make?

Total time is about 35 minutes (25 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 Best-Best Basil Pesto 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 Best-Best Basil Pesto 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 Best-Best Basil Pesto 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.

Is Best-Best Basil Pesto Pasta 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.

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