Fresh Basil Pesto Pasta
A creamy pasta dish infused with fresh basil, garlic, and parmesan, perfect for a quick weeknight meal. This italian-inspired pasta ready in about 25 minutes blends pasta, packed fresh basil, garlic 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.
Ingredients
- 12 oz pasta
- 1/2 cup, packed fresh basil
- 3 cloves garlic
- 1/2 cup, grated parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
Instructions
- Step 1: Cook 12 oz pasta in a large pot of salted boiling water according to package instructions, then drain and set aside.
- Step 2: In a food processor, combine 1/2 cup fresh basil, 3 minced garlic cloves, 1/2 cup grated parmesan, 1/4 cup olive oil, 1 tsp salt, and 1/2 tsp black pepper. Pulse until smooth, adding a splash of pasta water to reach desired consistency.
- Step 3: Toss the cooked pasta with the pesto until evenly coated. Garnish with additional parmesan and a drizzle of olive oil before serving.
Equipment for this recipe
Top-rated tools to make this recipe successfully.
Frequently asked questions
How long does Fresh Basil Pesto Pasta take to make?
Total time is about 25 minutes (15 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 Fresh 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 Fresh 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 Fresh 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.
What goes well with Fresh Basil Pesto 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.
What others are saying
- ★★★★★
The step-by-step instructions were super clear. Turned out perfect on my first try.
- ★★★★★
I've tried many general recipes and this is hands down the best.
- ★★★★★
My whole family loved this.
