This Homemade Basil Pesto Pasta is the ultimate quick and delicious meal, perfect for any night when you need something fresh and flavorful. Tossing pasta with a vibrant, homemade pesto sauce made from fresh basil, Parmesan, and garlic is simple but feels special. The best part? It can be prepared in less than 20 minutes.
Table of Contents
Total Time: 30 minutes
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Homemade Basil Pesto Pasta Recipe Video
Ingredients:
- 12 oz pasta (your favorite)
- 1/2 cup homemade basil pesto
- 1/4 cup reserved pasta water
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (optional)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh basil, for garnish
- Lemon zest, for a touch of brightness (optional)
- Cherry tomatoes or toasted pine nuts (optional, for serving)
Instructions:
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Start by filling a big pot with salted water and bringing it to a boil. Once boiling, toss in your pasta and cook it according to the instructions on the package until it’s al dente. Make sure to reserve about 1/4 cup of the starchy pasta water before draining.
Step 2: Make the Pesto
While the pasta cooks, prepare your Homemade Basil Pesto if you haven’t already. You can use the recipe above for fresh, fragrant pesto, or a good-quality store-bought version if you’re short on time.
Step 3: Combine Pasta and Pesto
In a large bowl or back in the pot, toss the drained pasta with the pesto sauce. Add a splash of the reserved pasta water to help the pesto coat the pasta evenly and to loosen it up if needed. If you like it a little richer, drizzle in some extra olive oil as you toss.
Step 4: Add Cheese and Season
Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, which will melt into the pasta and make it extra creamy. Taste and season with a bit of salt and freshly ground black pepper as needed.
Step 5: Serve
Plate the Basil Pesto Pasta and garnish with fresh basil leaves, a little more Parmesan, and a sprinkle of lemon zest for brightness if you like. For extra texture and color, you can add some halved cherry tomatoes or toasted pine nuts.
Tips:
- Pasta Options: While any pasta works, short shapes like fusilli, penne, or farfalle hold the pesto sauce beautifully. Long noodles like spaghetti or linguine are great for a more traditional feel.
- Protein Add-ins: For a heartier meal, add grilled chicken, shrimp, or roasted vegetables. These mix beautifully with the pesto.
- Make it Creamy: For an extra creamy version, stir in a tablespoon or two of heavy cream or a dollop of ricotta cheese when mixing the pesto and pasta.
- Leftovers: Keep any leftover food in a sealed container in the refrigerator for a maximum of 2 days. You can enjoy it cold as a pasta salad, or reheat with a little extra olive oil to revive the sauce.
This Homemade Basil Pesto Pasta is fresh, simple, and bursting with flavor. The combination of fragrant basil, Parmesan, and garlic wrapped around tender pasta is irresistible and perfect for any occasion—from a quick weeknight dinner to a casual dinner party. Enjoy.
Homemade Basil Pesto Pasta Nutrition Information (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount (Approx.) |
| Calories | 400-450 kcal |
| Total Fat | 20-25 g |
| Saturated Fat | 4-6 g |
| Cholesterol | 10-20 mg |
| Sodium | 300-350 mg |
| Total Carbohydrates | 45-50 g |
| Dietary Fiber | 2-4 g |
| Sugars | 2-3 g |
| Protein | 12-15 g |
| Calcium | 15-20% of Daily Value |
| Iron | 10-15% of Daily Value |
Health Benefits of Homemade Basil Pesto Pasta
- Rich in Antioxidants: Fresh basil is loaded with antioxidants that help fight inflammation and oxidative stress.
- Heart-Healthy Fats: Olive oil and pine nuts (if used) contain monounsaturated fats, which support heart health.
- Boosts Immune System: Garlic in the pesto helps to strengthen the immune system with its antiviral and antibacterial properties.
- Source of Protein: Parmesan cheese provides a good amount of protein to support muscle repair and overall health.
- Supports Digestive Health: Basil and olive oil have anti-inflammatory properties that may aid digestion.
- Promotes Bone Health: Parmesan cheese is rich in calcium, which helps maintain strong bones.
- Energy Booster: Pasta provides complex carbohydrates, giving a steady release of energy, making it ideal for active individuals.
- Supports Healthy Skin: The vitamin E in olive oil promotes healthy skin and reduces signs of aging.
- Good Source of Iron: Basil and pasta contain iron, essential for carrying oxygen in the blood and preventing anemia.
- Mood-Boosting: Basil contains adaptogenic properties that may help reduce stress and promote a sense of well-being.
Storage Instructions
- Refrigerator: Store any leftover Basil Pesto Pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will remain fresh for as long as 2 days.
- Freezer: Although it’s most delicious when fresh, you can freeze the pesto sauce on its own. Freeze the pesto in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw it in the fridge overnight before mixing with freshly cooked pasta.
Reheat and Reuse Instructions
- Reheat on Stovetop: To reheat the pasta, add a splash of olive oil or a small amount of water in a skillet over medium heat. Toss the pasta gently until warmed through, about 3-4 minutes. This helps rehydrate the sauce and keeps it from drying out.
- Reheat in Microwave: Place the pasta in a microwave-safe dish, sprinkle with a little olive oil or water, and cover loosely. Microwave on medium for 1 to 2 minutes, giving it a stir halfway to make sure it heats evenly.
Reuse Ideas:
- Pasta Salad: Enjoy the leftovers cold for a pesto pasta salad. Toss in some fresh veggies like spinach or cherry tomatoes for a light meal.
- Pasta Bake: For a heartier dish, transfer the pasta to a baking dish, top with mozzarella or Parmesan, and bake at 350°F (175°C) until bubbly and golden.
- Wraps: Use leftover pesto pasta as a filling for wraps with some grilled chicken or roasted veggies.
FAQ’s
How do you make homemade basil pesto for pasta?
To make homemade basil pesto, blend fresh basil leaves, garlic, pine nuts, Parmesan cheese, and olive oil in a food processor until smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste. After cooking your pasta, mix it with the pesto and a splash of the reserved pasta water to achieve a rich and delicious sauce.
What type of pasta works best with basil pesto?
Short pasta shapes like penne, fusilli, or farfalle work best because they hold the pesto sauce well. However, spaghetti or linguine also pair nicely for a more traditional feel. The key is to use pasta that captures the pesto in its ridges or twists.
How do you keep basil pesto from sticking to the pasta?
After cooking the pasta, reserve some of the starchy pasta water before draining. Toss the pasta with the pesto and a little pasta water, which helps to loosen the sauce and coat the pasta evenly. The pasta water binds with the pesto, creating a silky sauce.
Can you make pesto pasta ahead of time?
Pesto pasta is best served fresh, but you can make the pesto ahead of time. Keep it in the refrigerator for as long as a week, or you can freeze it in smaller portions. When ready to serve, just toss the pesto with freshly cooked pasta for the best flavor and texture.
What can you add to basil pesto pasta for more flavor?
You can add grilled chicken, shrimp, or roasted vegetables like cherry tomatoes, zucchini, or asparagus to make it more hearty. A sprinkle of extra Parmesan or crushed red pepper flakes can also enhance the flavors.
How do you store leftover basil pesto pasta?
Store leftover pesto pasta in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2-3 days. When reheating, add a splash of water or olive oil to loosen the sauce and prevent it from drying out.