You’re in luck! This 25-Minute Fresh Pesto Linguine offers an explosion of fresh flavors, bound to tickle your taste buds. With the luscious aroma of basil and garlic filling your kitchen, this dish will have you dreaming of cozy Italian cafes.
This vibrant pasta dish is a delightful combination of al dente linguine coated in a creamy, herbaceous pesto. The freshly made pesto, bursting with the rich flavors of basil, garlic, and Parmesan cheese, transforms a simple bowl of pasta into a gourmet dish right from your own kitchen. Plus, it’s a winner for busy families quick to prepare, filling, and absolutely delicious!
Top Reasons to Make This Recipe:
- Ready in 30 minutes: Perfect for weeknights when time is tight.
- Uses simple ingredients: Find everything you need right in your pantry or at your local store.
- Kid-friendly: This flavorful dish is sure to become a family favorite!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Ready in 30 minutes
- Made with pantry staples
- Perfect for weekly meal prep
- Naturally vegetarian
Ingredients for 25-Minute Fresh Pesto Linguine
- 8 oz linguine pasta
- 2 cups fresh basil leaves
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/3 cup pine nuts
- 2 cloves garlic
- 1/2 cup olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Cherry tomatoes (optional, for garnish)
Step-by-Step Instructions for 25-Minute Fresh Pesto Linguine
Cook the linguine: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the linguine and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Prepare the pesto: In a food processor, combine the fresh basil leaves, grated Parmesan cheese, pine nuts, and garlic. Pulse until coarsely chopped.
Blend in the olive oil: With the processor running, slowly drizzle in the olive oil until the mixture is smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Mix pasta and pesto: In a large bowl, combine the drained linguine with the freshly made pesto. Toss until the pasta is evenly coated.
Serve: Plate the pasta and garnish with halved cherry tomatoes if desired. Enjoy your flavorful linguine!
Tips for Success
- Use fresh basil: The freshness of the basil really makes the pesto shine don’t skimp on this!
- Toast pine nuts: For an added depth of flavor, toast the pine nuts lightly before blending them into the pesto.
- Adjust consistency: If the pesto is too thick, add a bit more olive oil until you reach your desired consistency.
Substitutions & Variations of 25-Minute Fresh Pesto Linguine
- To Make It Vegan: Use vegan Parmesan or nutritional yeast instead of cheese. Substitute the olive oil with avocado oil for a different twist.
- Variations: Add a splash of lemon juice for brightness, or toss in some sautéed veggies like zucchini or bell peppers for added nutrition.
Storage Instructions for 25-Minute Fresh Pesto Linguine
- Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
- Freezer: This dish doesn’t freeze as well due to the basil, but you can store the pesto separately in the freezer for up to 3 months.
- Make-Ahead: Prepare the pesto a day in advance and store it in the fridge; just toss it with freshly cooked pasta when you’re ready to eat.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) of 25-Minute Fresh Pesto Linguine
Can I use other nuts for the pesto? Yes! Walnuts or cashews can be delicious substitutes.
Is there a gluten-free option? Absolutely! Just use gluten-free pasta to enjoy this dish without the gluten.
Can this be made ahead of time? For the best flavor, it’s best enjoyed fresh, but you can prepare the pesto in advance.
Final Toughts
Whether you’re too busy for a complicated dinner or just craving a burst of fresh flavor, the 25-Minute Fresh Pesto Linguine is the go-to recipe for you. It’s simple, satisfying, and a great way to impress your family or guests without breaking a sweat in the kitchen. So, go ahead and give this delightful dish a try, and don’t forget to come back to leave a comment and let us know how it turned out. Happy cooking!
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25-Minute Fresh Pesto Linguine
A quick and satisfying pasta dish featuring a creamy, herbaceous pesto made from fresh basil, garlic, and Parmesan, perfect for busy days.
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 8 oz linguine pasta
- 2 cups fresh basil leaves
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/3 cup pine nuts
- 2 cloves garlic
- 1/2 cup olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Cherry tomatoes (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the linguine and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a food processor, combine the fresh basil leaves, grated Parmesan cheese, pine nuts, and garlic. Pulse until coarsely chopped.
- With the processor running, slowly drizzle in the olive oil until the mixture is smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- In a large bowl, combine the drained linguine with the freshly made pesto. Toss until the pasta is evenly coated.
- Plate the pasta and garnish with halved cherry tomatoes if desired. Enjoy your flavorful linguine!
Notes
Use fresh basil for the best flavor. Toasting pine nuts can enhance the depth of the pesto. To adjust consistency, add more olive oil if too thick.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Pasta Making
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Vegetarian