Genovese Authentic Basil Pesto Pasta
A vibrant Genovese pesto made with stone-ground pecorino and perfectly toasted pine nuts, coating al dente spaghetti in a single pan. This italian-inspired pasta ready in about 25 minutes blends packed fresh basil, pine nuts, freshly grated pecorino 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 680 calories and feeds 2, 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
- 2 cups packed fresh basil
- 1/4 cup pine nuts
- 3 tbsp freshly grated pecorino
- 1 clove garlic
- 1/2 cup extra-virgin olive oil
- 8 oz spaghetti
- 1/4 cup reserved pasta water
Instructions
- Step 1: Toast 1/4 cup pine nuts in a dry skillet over medium-low heat for 3-4 minutes until golden and fragrant, stirring constantly to prevent burning.
- Step 2: Blend 2 cups packed fresh basil, 1 clove minced garlic, 1/4 cup toasted pine nuts, and 3 tbsp freshly grated pecorino in a food processor until finely chopped, then slowly drizzle in 1/2 cup extra-virgin olive oil while processing until smooth.
- Step 3: Cook 8 oz spaghetti in salted boiling water for 8 minutes until al dente. Reserve 1/4 cup pasta water, then toss drained spaghetti with 3/4 cup pesto and 1/4 cup reserved pasta water until glossy and fully coated.
Equipment for this recipe
Top-rated tools to make this recipe successfully.
Frequently asked questions
How long does Genovese Authentic Basil Pesto Pasta take to make?
Total time is about 25 minutes (10 min prep + 15 min cook). A small batch typically covers several meals in the week — store as the recipe directs.
How do I store leftover Genovese Authentic 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 Genovese Authentic 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 Genovese Authentic Basil Pesto Pasta for a different number of people?
The recipe is written for 2 servings. Multiply each ingredient by (your serving target / 2). 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 Genovese Authentic 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
- ★★★★★
Used half the salt and it was still plenty flavorful.
- ★★★★☆
Tasty recipe. I'd add a bit more seasoning next time.
- ★★★★☆
Very good for a 15-minute recipe. Would bump up the spice level though.
