Dinner

Authentic Italian Pesto Pasta in 15 Minutes Recipe

Name: Authentic Italian Pesto Pasta in 15 Minutes Recipe
Prep time: 7 min
Cook time: 6 min
Total time: 13 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 6 oz (170 g) spaghetti pasta; Salt, for boiling water; Optional garnish: grated parmesan cheese and fresh basil leaves; 1.5 oz (40 g) fresh basil leaves (approximately 2 cups); 2 garlic cloves; 2 tablespoons pine nuts; ¼ cup grated parmesan cheese; ¼ lemon, juiced; 4 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil; Salt and black pepper, to taste; 3-4 tablespoons basil pesto (homemade or store-bought)

ByLana Polati December 26, 2025December 26, 2025

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Introduction

Pesto pasta is a quick and flavorful Italian classic that you can prepare in just 15 minutes. Whether you use store-bought or homemade pesto, this dish delivers a fresh, garlicky punch and a comforting, silky texture. Perfect for a simple weeknight dinner or a casual lunch.

A close-up of a bowl full of spaghetti pasta twisted into small piles, coated evenly with a green pesto sauce that has a slightly oily and textured look with tiny bits of herbs and nuts visible. Two fresh green basil leaves are placed on top and mixed within the pasta, adding freshness and bright color contrast. The white bowl sits on a white marbled surface, giving a clean and simple background. The photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

6oz / 170g pasta (spaghetti recommended)
3-4 tablespoons basil pesto (homemade or store-bought)
Optional garnish: grated parmesan cheese and basil leaves
1.5oz / 40g fresh basil leaves (~2 cups)
2 garlic cloves
2 tablespoons pine nuts
¼ cup parmesan cheese, grated
¼ lemon, juiced
4 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
Salt and black pepper to taste

Instructions

Step 1: If you’re using store-bought pesto, skip to step 4. To make homemade pesto, start by toasting the pine nuts in a skillet over low heat until lightly golden and fragrant.
Step 2: In a food processor or blender, combine the fresh basil leaves, garlic, grated parmesan, lemon juice, olive oil, toasted pine nuts, and a pinch of salt and pepper.
Step 3: Pulse the mixture until blended but still textured—avoid over-blending to keep a nice consistency. Alternatively, use a mortar and pestle for a traditional touch.
Step 4: Boil the pasta in a large pot of heavily salted water until al dente, according to package instructions.
Step 5: Drain the pasta, reserving some of the cooking water, then transfer the pasta to a large bowl.
Step 6: Add 3 tablespoons of pesto to the pasta along with a splash of the reserved pasta water. Gently toss with tongs to combine, adding more pasta water as needed to achieve a silky texture. Adjust the amount of pesto to taste.
Step 7: Taste and adjust seasoning. If using store-bought pesto, a squeeze of lemon juice brightens the flavors nicely. Serve immediately with a sprinkle of grated parmesan and fresh basil leaves if desired.

Tips & Variations

For a nut-free version, substitute pine nuts with toasted pumpkin seeds or walnuts.
Add a handful of cherry tomatoes or sautéed mushrooms for extra flavor and texture.
Use gluten-free pasta to make this dish suitable for gluten-sensitive diets.
If you prefer a creamier sauce, stir in a spoonful of ricotta or cream cheese when tossing the pasta.

Storage

Store any leftover pesto pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a pan with a splash of water or olive oil to loosen the sauce, as microwaving can dry it out. For best freshness, make pesto fresh when possible.

How to Serve

A close-up of a white bowl filled with a large mound of spaghetti noodles coated evenly in a green pesto sauce with small bits of herbs visible throughout. The pasta is twisted into loose, thick bundles piled on top of each other forming a textured, layered pile. Bright green basil leaves are placed sporadically on top and within the noodles, adding color contrast. The bowl sits on a smooth white marbled surface, enhancing the fresh vibrant look of the pesto pasta. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make pesto pasta ahead of time?

While you can prepare the pesto in advance, it’s best to toss the pasta with pesto just before serving to maintain the sauce’s fresh flavor and texture.

What pasta types work best with pesto?

Long pasta like spaghetti or linguine works beautifully, but short pasta such as penne or fusilli also hold the pesto well. Choose your favorite shape!