Made with fresh basil, pine nuts, nutritional yeast, and olive oil, this vegan pesto pasta bursts with flavors that remind us of sunny Italian kitchens.
To enhance the texture and depth, try adding delightful toppings like cherry tomatoes, roasted cashews, and even a sprinkle of vegan parmesan.
Follow this easy recipe, and you’ll have a meal that’s hearty, nutritious, and incredibly satisfying.
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Ingredients for the Vegan Pesto Sauce
Each ingredient in this pesto sauce brings a unique element to the mix, making it creamy, flavorful, and perfectly balanced. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 2 cups fresh basil leaves — washed and dried
- 1/4 cup pine nuts — toasted if preferred for a richer flavor
- 2 cloves garlic — peeled and roughly chopped
- 1/4 cup nutritional yeast — adds that classic cheesy flavor
- 1/4 cup olive oil — or more for a smoother texture
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice — adds brightness and acidity
- Salt and pepper to taste
Additional Toppings
The toppings can elevate the texture and bring in delightful bursts of flavor. Feel free to mix and match according to your preferences:
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes — halved for color and a juicy bite
- 1/4 cup roasted cashews — for a nutty, crunchy texture
- Vegan parmesan — sprinkled on top for a cheesy finish
- Fresh basil leaves — for garnish
Choosing the Right Pasta
Any type of pasta can work well with pesto, but certain shapes tend to hold the sauce better. Opt for these:
- Fusilli — its spirals hold onto the sauce perfectly
- Linguine — a classic choice with pesto, ideal for a smooth bite
- Penne — the hollow tubes capture the sauce, adding bursts of flavor in each bite
You can also choose gluten-free pasta or chickpea-based pasta for a protein-rich, low-carb option.
Step-by-Step Recipe for Vegan Pesto Pasta
Follow these easy steps, and in under 30 minutes, you’ll have a delicious vegan pasta dish ready to serve.
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
Start by washing the fresh basil leaves thoroughly and patting them dry with a clean towel. Drying the basil thoroughly helps ensure the pesto doesn’t become watery. Peel the garlic cloves and chop them roughly, just to help blend smoothly.
Step 2: Toast the Pine Nuts (Optional)
Toasting the pine nuts is optional, but it does enhance their flavor. To toast, place the pine nuts in a dry skillet over medium heat. Stir them frequently for about 2–3 minutes until they turn golden brown. Remove them from the heat immediately to avoid burning. Set aside to cool.
Step 3: Blend the Pesto Sauce
Now, place the basil leaves, pine nuts, garlic, nutritional yeast, and lemon juice in a high-speed blender or food processor. Blend on low speed, drizzling in the olive oil slowly until the mixture turns smooth and creamy. If the pesto seems too thick, add a little extra olive oil or water (one teaspoon at a time) until you reach your desired consistency.
Once blended, taste the pesto and adjust seasoning as needed. Add salt and pepper to taste, ensuring it has a balanced, rich flavor.
Step 4: Cook the Pasta
While the pesto sauce rests, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until it reaches al dente (firm to the bite). Cooking the pasta slightly under helps it hold up when tossed with the warm sauce and toppings.
Drain the pasta, reserving about half a cup of the pasta water. This starchy water can help adjust the sauce consistency later if needed.
Step 5: Combine Pasta and Pesto Sauce
Return the pasta to the pot over low heat, adding the pesto sauce. Toss until the pasta is evenly coated. If the pesto feels too thick, add the reserved pasta water a little at a time until the sauce coats each noodle smoothly.
Adding the Finishing Touches
With your pasta coated in the deliciously vibrant pesto, it’s time to add toppings. Here’s how to bring even more flavor and texture to your dish:
- Cherry Tomatoes: Slice the cherry tomatoes in half and scatter them over the pasta. Their sweetness and juicy texture add a fresh contrast to the rich, herby pesto.
- Roasted Cashews: Roughly chop or crush the roasted cashews before sprinkling them over the dish. Their crunchy texture pairs wonderfully with the creamy pasta and adds a warm, nutty flavor that complements the pine nuts.
- Vegan Parmesan: Add a light sprinkle of vegan parmesan on top for a cheesy, savory touch. The parmesan enhances the dish’s depth and mimics the traditional Italian flavor of pesto pasta.
- Fresh Basil Leaves: Garnish with a few whole basil leaves for an aromatic finish and a pop of color.
Serving Suggestions
Vegan pesto pasta shines as a main course, but it also pairs beautifully with light side dishes. Here are a few ideas to complete your meal:
- Garlic Bread: A classic side, perfect for soaking up any leftover pesto sauce.
- Arugula Salad: A fresh salad with arugula, cherry tomatoes, and a balsamic vinaigrette complements the pasta with a hint of bitterness.
- Roasted Vegetables: Roasted zucchini, bell peppers, or asparagus add a layer of color, flavor, and nutrition.
Tips for Storing and Reheating
Vegan pesto pasta can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days in an airtight container. When reheating, add a splash of water or a drizzle of olive oil to keep it creamy. Warm it over low heat on the stovetop or use a microwave, stirring halfway through to prevent it from drying out.
If you have leftover pesto sauce, store it separately. Homemade pesto stays fresh in the fridge for up to a week, or you can freeze it in ice cube trays for individual servings.
Customizing Your Vegan Pesto Pasta
One of the best parts about vegan pesto pasta is its versatility. Here are a few variations to try:
- Swap the Nuts: Replace pine nuts with walnuts, almonds, or sunflower seeds for different flavors and textures.
- Add Greens: Blend in spinach, arugula, or kale for a nutrient boost and a deeper green color.
- Make it Spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce or sprinkle on top for a spicy kick.
Final Thoughts
Vegan pesto pasta is a dish that delivers comfort, flavor, and nutrition all in one. Its fresh basil aroma, creamy texture from olive oil and nuts, and savory kick from nutritional yeast make it a fantastic plant-based meal. With customizable toppings and endless side pairings, this dish brings a taste of Italy to your table, vegan-style. Enjoy experimenting with this recipe and making it your own!
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Enjoy this vibrant vegan pesto pasta made with fresh basil, pine nuts, and nutritional yeast, topped with tomatoes and cashews for a nutritious, flavorful meal.
