Gather around, food lovers! There’s something incredibly rewarding about sharing a wholesome, homemade meal with loved ones, especially when it’s crafted with fresh, vibrant ingredients. Today, I’m inviting you into my cozy kitchen to indulge in our Dairy-Free Pesto Pasta Recipe. This dish is a celebration of flavors, colors, and textures—a perfect blend for family dinners, impromptu gatherings, or cozy evenings in. What makes this pesto pasta special is its delightful harmony between the bold, nutty pesto and the juicy burst of cherry tomatoes, all united fantastically by the silky charm of the pasta. It’s not just a meal—it’s an experience, a chance to bond, and a reason to celebrate wholesome cooking.
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Servings: 4
Skill Level: Easy
Ingredients
- 2 cups fresh basil leaves
- 1/3 cup pine nuts, toasted
- 2 cloves garlic
- 1/2 cup extra-virgin olive oil
- 1/4 cup nutritional yeast
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 12 oz pasta of your choice
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish
Instructions
- Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a food processor, combine basil leaves, toasted pine nuts, and garlic. Pulse until the mixture is finely chopped.
- With the food processor running, slowly drizzle in the olive oil until the mixture is smooth and creamy. Stir in the nutritional yeast and season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Toss the cooked pasta with the freshly made pesto, ensuring each strand is well coated.
- Gently fold in the halved cherry tomatoes and transfer the pasta to a serving bowl.
- Garnish with fresh basil leaves and a sprinkle of extra pine nuts if desired.
Helpful Tips
For a deeper flavor, consider roasting the garlic before adding it to the pesto. If pine nuts are not available, you can substitute them with walnuts or almonds. Also, try adding a squeeze of lemon juice to the pesto for an added zing.
Storage Instructions
This Dairy-Free Pesto Pasta can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For best results, it’s recommended to keep the pesto separate from the pasta and mix them just before serving.
Pairings
This pasta dish pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad and a glass of refreshing white wine or sparkling water with a twist of lemon. For a heartier meal, add a side of grilled chicken or fish.
At Zynahz, we believe in bringing joy, creativity, and family togetherness into the kitchen. We hope you try this Dairy-Free Pesto Pasta Recipe and let it add warmth to your family gatherings or solo culinary adventures. Share your delicious results with us and spread the love by sharing this recipe with friends and family. Explore more of our delightful recipes, follow us on social media, and sign up for our newsletter to stay inspired in your cooking journey.
