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Pesto Pasta

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This Pesto Pasta is a simple and delicious dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Made with fresh basil, sunflower seeds, and a squeeze of lemon, this pesto is vibrant, nutty, and easy to whip up in minutes.

  • Author: chloegoldenberg
  • Prep Time: 15
  • Cook Time: 30
  • Total Time: 45

Ingredients

Units Scale
For the Pesto:
  • 2 cups fresh basil leaves, packed
  • 1/2 cup sunflower seeds
  • 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons lemon juice (about 1/2 a lemon)
  • Salt and pepper to taste
For the Pasta:
  • 12 oz (340g) pasta of your choice (spaghetti, penne, or fusilli work well)
  • Salt for boiling water
  • Optional: Extra basil leaves and sunflower seeds for garnish

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Pesto:
    • In a food processor or blender, combine the basil leaves, sunflower seeds, and lemon juice. Pulse a few times to start breaking down the ingredients.
    • With the motor running, slowly drizzle in the olive oil until the mixture becomes a smooth, creamy pesto. Stop to scrape down the sides if needed.
    • Season with salt and pepper to taste. Blend again briefly to mix the seasoning evenly. Set the pesto aside.
  2. Cook the Pasta:
    • Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente (firm to the bite).
    • Reserve about 1/2 cup of the pasta cooking water, then drain the pasta.
  3. Combine Pasta and Pesto:
    • In a large bowl, toss the hot pasta with the prepared pesto. Add a little of the reserved pasta water if the mixture seems too thick, and toss until the pasta is evenly coated with the pesto.
    • Adjust seasoning if needed by adding more salt, pepper, or lemon juice.
  4. Serve:
    • Serve the pesto pasta warm, garnished with extra basil leaves and sunflower seeds if desired.
  5. Enjoy:
    • This dish is best enjoyed fresh, but leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently with a splash of water or olive oil to bring it back to life.

Notes

  • Sunflower Seeds: These add a nutty flavor and are a great alternative to pine nuts traditionally used in pesto.
  • Lemon Juice: This adds brightness and balances the richness of the olive oil. Adjust to taste.
  • Pasta Water: This starchy water helps the pesto cling to the pasta and makes the sauce silky.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://meetthevegans.com/blog/back-to-school-lunch-box-ideas-part-2-healthy-easy-recipes-for-kids/

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