Genovese Authentic Pesto Pasta with Sun-Dried Tomatoes
A vibrant Genoese-style pesto made with precise ratios of fresh herbs and pine nuts, tossed with al dente pasta for a burst of basil-forward flavor. This italian-inspired pasta ready in about 27 minutes blends ounces pasta, packed fresh basil, 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 420 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 ounces pasta
- 2 cups, packed fresh basil
- 1/4 cup pine nuts
- 1/2 cup, finely grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cloves garlic
- 1/2 cup olive oil
- 1/4 cup, oil-packed, chopped sun-dried tomatoes
Instructions
- Step 1: Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add 12 ounces pasta and cook for 8 minutes until al dente, reserving 1/2 cup pasta water before draining.
- Step 2: In a food processor, combine 2 cups packed fresh basil, 1/4 cup pine nuts, and 2 garlic cloves. Process while slowly drizzling in 1/2 cup olive oil until a coarse paste forms.
- Step 3: Add 1/2 cup finely grated Parmesan and 1/4 cup chopped sun-dried tomatoes, pulsing to combine without over-processing.
- Step 4: Toss the drained pasta with the pesto mixture in a large bowl, adding reserved pasta water 1 tablespoon at a time until the sauce coats the strands evenly.
- Step 5: Serve immediately, garnished with extra Parmesan and a sprinkle of pine nuts.
Equipment for this recipe
Top-rated tools to make this recipe successfully.
Frequently asked questions
How long does Genovese Authentic Pesto Pasta with Sun-Dried Tomatoes 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 Genovese Authentic Pesto Pasta with Sun-Dried Tomatoes?
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 Pesto Pasta with Sun-Dried Tomatoes?
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 Pesto Pasta with Sun-Dried Tomatoes 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 Genovese Authentic Pesto Pasta with Sun-Dried Tomatoes?
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
- ★★★★★
Added some red pepper flakes for heat — highly recommend.
- ★★★★★
Brought this to a potluck and it was the first dish to disappear.
- ★★★★★
Great base recipe! I added a pinch of smoked paprika and it was even better.
