Looking for a quick and delicious meal that will brighten your day? This Vegan Pesto Pasta Recipe is just what you need! Packed with fresh flavors and vibrant colors, it’s a delightful dish that comes together in no time. Perfect for weeknight dinners or when you’re entertaining friends, this pasta will leave everyone asking for seconds.
What makes this dish truly special is the homemade vegan pesto, which is bursting with the goodness of fresh basil, garlic, and nutritional yeast. It brings a unique, rich flavor that is both satisfying and nutritious. Plus, it’s versatile enough to accommodate whatever vegetables you have on hand!
Easy Vegan Pesto Pasta Recipe
This Vegan Pesto Pasta Recipe features al dente pasta tossed with a creamy, fragrant pesto made from fresh basil, garlic, walnuts, and nutritional yeast. It’s a delightful combination of flavors that dances on your palate and leaves you feeling energized.
The dish is not only easy to prepare, but it also offers a wonderful balance of freshness and earthiness, making it a fantastic option for both vegan enthusiasts and anyone looking to enjoy a lighter meal.
Ingredients
- 8 ounces of pasta of your choice (spaghetti, penne, or fusilli)
- 2 cups fresh basil leaves
- 1/2 cup walnuts or pine nuts
- 3 cloves garlic
- 1/4 cup nutritional yeast
- 1/2 cup olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Cherry tomatoes and spinach for garnish (optional)
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.
- Make the Pesto: In a food processor, combine the basil, nuts, garlic, nutritional yeast, and a pinch of salt. Pulse until finely chopped. With the processor running, slowly add the olive oil until smooth.
- Combine: Toss the cooked pasta with the vegan pesto, adding reserved pasta water as needed to achieve your desired consistency.
- Serve: Plate the pasta and garnish with cherry tomatoes and fresh spinach for a pop of color and additional flavor. Enjoy warm!
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
Nutrition Information
- Servings: 4 servings
- Calories: 350kcal
- Fat: 18g
- Protein: 10g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
