Imagine sitting at a sunny kitchen table, the fresh fragrance of basil and zesty lemon filling the air. It’s a smell that promises warmth, creativity, and a dash of sunshine in every bite. Today, we’re diving into our Lemon Basil Pesto Pasta Recipe—a delightful combination of vibrant flavors and comforting textures. This dish is perfect for family dinners, joyous gatherings with friends, or even a solo meal to brighten your day. The rich, green hues and zest of the lemon make this pasta unforgettable and an absolute must-try for any home cook.
Recipe Summary
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Servings: 4
Skill Level: Easy
Ingredients
- 12 oz pasta (spaghetti or your choice)
- 2 cups fresh basil leaves, packed
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 1/3 cup pine nuts (or walnuts for variation)
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- Zest and juice of 1 lemon
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Additional grated Parmesan and fresh basil leaves for garnish
Instructions
- Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water.
- In a food processor, combine basil leaves, Parmesan cheese, pine nuts, and minced garlic. Pulse until finely chopped.
- Gradually add the olive oil, pulsing until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
- Add the lemon zest and juice, then season with salt and pepper to taste. Pulse once more to blend. If the pesto is too thick, add a bit of the reserved pasta water until the desired consistency is achieved.
- Toss the cooked pasta with the lemon basil pesto, ensuring it’s evenly coated.
- Serve immediately, garnished with additional grated Parmesan cheese and fresh basil leaves.
Helpful Tips
- If you don’t have pine nuts, walnuts or almonds work well as a substitute.
- Extra pesto can be stored in the refrigerator for up to a week or frozen for up to a month.
- If the pesto is too thick, add a little more olive oil or pasta water to reach the desired consistency.
- For a spicy kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the pesto.
Pairings
This Lemon Basil Pesto Pasta pairs beautifully with a simple green salad and a slice of garlic bread. For a refreshing beverage, consider serving with iced tea or a light, sparkling water with a slice of lemon.
Here at Zynahz, we believe that every meal can be a celebration of joy and creativity. Our Lemon Basil Pesto Pasta is more than a recipe; it’s an invitation to savor the simple moments and create delicious memories with loved ones. We encourage you to try this recipe and share your delightful creations with us. Don’t forget to spread the love by sharing this recipe with friends and family. Explore more culinary adventures with Zynahz, follow us on social media, and subscribe to our newsletter for the latest updates and inspirations. Happy cooking!
