If you're searching for a quick yet flavorful dish that will impress your family and friends, look no further than this delightful Pumpkin Seed Pesto Pasta! In just 25 minutes, you can whip up a vibrant Italian-inspired meal that bursts with fresh basil and nutty pumpkin seed goodness. This recipe not only elevates your pasta game but also introduces a unique twist on traditional pesto that is sure to leave everyone asking for seconds. Ready to dive into a bowl of deliciousness? Let’s get cooking!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 15 mins
Total Time: 25 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 8 oz pasta of choice
- 1/2 cup pumpkin seeds
- 1 cup fresh basil leaves
- 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- 2 cloves garlic
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil over high heat. Once boiling, add the 8 oz of pasta of your choice. Cook according to the package instructions until al dente, usually about 8-10 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- While the pasta is cooking, prepare the pumpkin seed pesto. In a food processor, combine 1/2 cup of pumpkin seeds, 1 cup of fresh basil leaves, 1/4 cup of grated Parmesan cheese, and 2 cloves of garlic. Pulse the mixture until the ingredients are finely chopped and well combined.
- With the food processor running, slowly drizzle in 1/4 cup of olive oil. Continue to process until the pesto reaches your desired consistency. You may need to scrape down the sides of the bowl with a spatula to ensure everything is well mixed.
- Once the pasta is cooked, reserve about 1/2 cup of the pasta cooking water, then drain the pasta in a colander. Do not rinse the pasta, as you want to keep some of the starch to help the pesto adhere.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the drained pasta with the pumpkin seed pesto. Toss well to coat the pasta evenly. If the pesto is too thick, add a little of the reserved pasta cooking water until you achieve your desired consistency.
- Season the pasta with salt and pepper to taste. Toss again to incorporate the seasoning evenly throughout the dish.
- Serve the pumpkin seed pesto pasta warm, garnished with additional grated Parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of extra pumpkin seeds if desired. Enjoy your delicious Italian-inspired meal!
Tips
- Choose Your Pasta Wisely: While this recipe works well with any pasta, consider using whole grain or gluten-free options for added nutrition and variety.
- Fresh Ingredients Matter: For the best flavor, use fresh basil leaves and high-quality Parmesan cheese. Fresh ingredients will elevate the taste of your pesto significantly.
- Adjust the Consistency: If you find the pesto too thick, don’t hesitate to add a splash of the reserved pasta cooking water. This will help achieve a creamy, luscious sauce that clings beautifully to the pasta.
- Experiment with Add-Ins: Feel free to customize your dish by adding sautéed vegetables, grilled chicken, or even sun-dried tomatoes for extra flavor and texture.
- Garnish for Presentation: A sprinkle of extra pumpkin seeds and Parmesan cheese not only enhances the flavor but also adds a beautiful finishing touch to your dish.
- Make it Ahead: The pumpkin seed pesto can be made in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to a week. Just toss it with freshly cooked pasta when you’re ready to enjoy!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 400kcal
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 15g
Fat: 25g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Cholesterol: 10mg
