Pasta Pesto Genovese

Pasta Pesto Genovese is a vibrant vegan dish that showcases the lush flavors of fresh basil and garlic, blended into a creamy and aromatic pesto. This simple yet elegant pasta is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.

Ingredients

• Pasta (spaghetti or linguine) - 200 grams
• Fresh basil leaves - 50 grams
• Pine nuts - 30 grams
• Garlic cloves - 2
• Nutritional yeast - 3 tablespoons
• Olive oil - 60 ml
• Lemon juice - 1 tablespoon
• Salt - to taste
• Black pepper - to taste
• Cherry tomatoes - 100 grams (for garnish)

Steps

1. Cook the pasta according to package instructions in a pot of salted boiling water until al dente.
2. While the pasta is cooking, prepare the pesto by combining the basil leaves, pine nuts, garlic, nutritional yeast, and lemon juice in a food processor.
3. Blend the mixture while slowly adding the olive oil until smooth and creamy. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
4. Once the pasta is cooked, reserve a cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta.
5. In a large mixing bowl, combine the drained pasta with the pesto, adding reserved pasta water a little at a time to achieve the desired consistency.
6. Serve the pasta in bowls, garnished with halved cherry tomatoes and a drizzle of olive oil if desired.

Nutrition

• Calories: 450
• Protein: 12 g
• Carbs: 62 g
• Fiber: 5 g
• Sugar: 2 g
• Sodium: 250 mg
• Cholesterol: 0 mg
• Total Fat: 20 g
• Saturated Fat: 2 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 18 g
• Water: 0.5 L

Health Benefits

• Rich in antioxidants from fresh basil which may help reduce inflammation.
• Provides healthy fats from olive oil and pine nuts, supporting heart health.

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