Make This Pesto Pasta Recipe When You Want A Fresh, Plant-Forward Meal

By Akshara

January 30, 2026

Pesto pasta is at its best when it feels light and herb-driven. Fresh basil, olive oil, and nuts create a sauce that coats rather than smothers the pasta. It suits quick lunches and simple dinners where flavour comes from ingredients rather than cooking time.

Ingredients

200 g pasta (fusilli or spaghetti) 2 cups fresh basil leaves 2 cloves garlic ¼ cup pine nuts or walnuts ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese ⅓ cup extra virgin olive oil Salt to taste

Step 1

Cook pasta in well-salted water until al dente and reserve some cooking water.

Step 2

Blend basil, garlic, nuts, cheese, and olive oil to a coarse pesto.

Step 3

Toss hot pasta with pesto, loosening with reserved water if needed.

Step 4

Finish with extra olive oil or cheese and pair with salad or bread.