Imagine twirling your fork into a plate of creamy, flavor-packed pasta that not only satisfies your taste buds but also keeps your health goals on track. This Lightened Up Sundried Tomato Basil Pesto Pasta is about to become your new obsession - a mouthwatering Italian-inspired dish that proves healthy eating can be absolutely delicious. With a perfect blend of wholesome whole wheat pasta and a vibrant, nutrient-rich pesto, this recipe is set to revolutionize your weeknight dinner routine.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 15 mins
Total Time: 25 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 8 oz whole wheat pasta
- 1/2 cup sundried tomatoes
- 1/4 cup fresh basil
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/4 cup nutritional yeast
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Fill a large pot with water and bring to a rolling boil. Add a pinch of salt to the water.
- Add whole wheat pasta to the boiling water and cook according to package instructions, typically 8-10 minutes, until al dente. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- While pasta is cooking, prepare the pesto sauce. In a food processor, combine sundried tomatoes, fresh basil, olive oil, nutritional yeast, salt, and pepper.
- Pulse the ingredients in the food processor until a smooth, slightly chunky consistency is achieved. Scrape down the sides of the processor as needed to ensure even blending.
- When pasta is cooked, reserve 1/4 cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta in a colander.
- Return the pasta to the pot and add the prepared sundried tomato basil pesto. Stir gently to coat the pasta evenly, adding reserved pasta water if needed to help sauce adhere.
- Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if required.
- Serve immediately in individual bowls, garnishing with extra fresh basil leaves if desired.
Tips
- Salt Your Pasta Water: Always add a generous pinch of salt to your boiling water. This is your first chance to season the pasta and enhance its flavor from the inside out.
- Al Dente is Key: Watch your pasta carefully and aim for that perfect al dente texture - firm to the bite but not hard. This ensures the best texture and prevents mushy pasta.
- Reserve Pasta Water: The starchy pasta water is liquid gold! It helps create a silky sauce and helps the pesto cling to the pasta more effectively.
- Fresh Ingredients Matter: Use the freshest basil you can find. If possible, pick basil leaves right before making the pesto to maximize flavor and aroma.
- Customize Your Pesto: Feel free to adjust the nutritional yeast and olive oil quantities to suit your taste preferences. The beauty of this recipe is its flexibility!
- Quick Meal Prep: This recipe comes together in just 25 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights when you want something delicious but don't have hours to cook.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 320kcal
Carbohydrates: 45g
Protein: 12g
Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Cholesterol: 0mg
