Classic Basil Pesto Pasta

Reviewed by admin · Updated May 24, 2026
  • 10 min prep
  • 10 min cook
  • 20 min total
  • 4 servings
  • Home cook

Two ingredients matter: the basil and the cheese.

Ingredients

4
  • 2 cups basil packed
  • 0.5 cup pine nuts toasted
  • 2 cloves garlic
  • 0.5 cup parmesan grated
  • 0.5 cup olive oil
  • 1 lb spaghetti

Method

  1. Pound basil, pine nuts, garlic in a mortar to a paste. Stir in cheese and olive oil.

  2. Boil pasta. Reserve 1 cup pasta water before draining.

  3. Toss hot pasta with pesto, loosening with pasta water until creamy.

FAQs

Can I make pesto ahead?

Yes — refrigerate up to 3 days with olive oil on top to prevent browning.

Pair with

About the editor

admin

Editor at Sweet Basil Thyme