Basil Pasta with Parmesan, Toasted Pine Nuts, and Lemon Garlic Butter Sauce
Description
This light, fresh, and flavorful pasta dish is perfect for a meatless and vegetarian meal. The aromatic basil, nutty toasted pine nuts, and tangy lemon garlic butter sauce create a delicious balance of flavors. Topped with shaved Parmesan, this dish is simple, elegant, and incredibly satisfying.
✅ Quick & Easy – Ready in 20 minutes!
✅ Vegetarian & Meatless
✅ Perfect for lunch, dinner, or as a side dish
Ingredients
- 12 oz (340g) bowtie (farfalle) pasta (or your choice of pasta)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup pine nuts, toasted
- Juice of 1 lemon
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (plus extra for topping)
- 1/2 cup fresh basil, chopped
- 1/2 tsp salt (or to taste)
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
- Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta and set aside.
- Toast the Pine Nuts:
- In a dry skillet over medium heat, toast the pine nuts until golden brown and fragrant (about 2 minutes).
- Stir frequently to prevent burning. Remove from heat and set aside.
- Make the Lemon Garlic Butter Sauce:
- In the same skillet, heat olive oil and butter over medium-low heat.
- Add minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant (do not brown the garlic).
- Add lemon juice, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes. Stir well.
- Combine Everything:
- Add the drained pasta to the skillet and toss to coat in the sauce.
- Stir in grated Parmesan, toasted pine nuts, and fresh basil.
- If the sauce is too thick, add reserved pasta water one tablespoon at a time until the desired consistency is reached.
- Serve & Garnish:
- Transfer to a serving dish and top with extra Parmesan and fresh basil.
- Serve warm and enjoy!
Servings
- Serves: 4
- Serving Size: ~1.5 cups
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: ~420
- Protein: ~12g
- Carbohydrates: ~50g
- Fat: ~20g
- Fiber: ~3g
- Calcium: ~15% DV
Tips for the Best Basil Pasta
✔ Use fresh basil for the best flavor; dried basil won’t give the same freshness.
✔ Toast pine nuts carefully – they burn quickly!
✔ Want extra creaminess? Stir in a splash of heavy cream or a spoonful of ricotta.
✔ For more protein, add chickpeas, grilled tofu, or a poached egg on top.
✔ Make it vegan – Use vegan butter and nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan.
Health Benefits
✔ Rich in healthy fats – Pine nuts and olive oil provide heart-healthy fats.
✔ Packed with antioxidants – Basil and garlic have anti-inflammatory properties.
✔ High in fiber – Helps with digestion and keeps you full longer.
✔ Great for a balanced diet – Provides carbs, protein, and healthy fats.
Q&A
❓ Can I make this gluten-free?
✔ Yes! Use gluten-free pasta, and ensure all ingredients are GF-certified.
❓ Can I make this ahead of time?
✔ Yes! Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat with a splash of water or olive oil.
❓ What other nuts can I use?
✔ Try walnuts, almonds, or cashews for a different flavor.
❓ Can I add vegetables?
✔ Absolutely! Try adding sautéed spinach, cherry tomatoes, or zucchini.
Would you like any modifications or variations? 😊