Basil Recipes Vegetarian Food Lovers Will Crave

There’s something magical about the aroma of fresh basil. Its sweet, slightly peppery fragrance has the power to transform any dish from ordinary to extraordinary.

If you’re a vegetarian—or just looking to add more delicious plant-based meals to your table—basil will quickly become your best kitchen companion. Whether you’re craving a classic Italian-inspired dish, a vibrant salad, or an unexpected twist on comfort food, basil’s versatility shines in vegetarian recipes.

In this blog post, I’m sharing my absolute favorite vegetarian basil recipe: Creamy Basil Pesto Pasta with Roasted Vegetables. This meal is bursting with flavor, packed with nutrients, and comes together in under an hour.

Not only is it simple for weeknight dinners, but it’s also elegant enough to serve guests. Get ready for a dish that will have everyone coming back for seconds—and don’t forget to check out the tips, variations, and serving suggestions below for even more basil inspiration!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Fresh and Flavorful: The homemade basil pesto infuses the dish with a garden-fresh taste that’s both bright and comforting.
• Vegetarian and Satisfying: Packed with roasted vegetables, this recipe is both nourishing and filling—no one will miss the meat.
• Easy to Make: Simple steps and minimal prep make this perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends.
• Customizable: Swap in your favorite veggies or pasta shapes based on what you have on hand or what’s in season.
• Meal Prep-Friendly: Make the pesto in advance or roast extra veggies for quick, flavorful lunches through the week.
• Family Favorite: Even picky eaters will love the creamy, cheesy, herbaceous flavors.

Ingredients

Here’s everything you’ll need to create this delicious basil vegetarian recipe. For easy reference, I’ve included quantities and suggested swaps in the table below:

Equipment

• Large pot – for boiling pasta
• Colander – to drain pasta
• Baking sheet – for roasting vegetables
• Parchment paper – optional, for easy cleanup
• Food processor or blender – for making pesto
• Chef’s knife & cutting board – for prepping veggies
• Measuring cups & spoons
• Mixing bowl – for tossing veggies with oil
• Wooden spoon or spatula

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
   This is the perfect temperature to get those veggies caramelized and golden.
2. Prep your vegetables: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cherry tomatoes, red bell pepper, zucchini, and red onion. Drizzle with 2 tablespoons of olive oil, sprinkle with salt and black pepper, and toss to coat evenly.
3. Roast the vegetables: Spread the vegetables in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Roast for 20-25 minutes, stirring halfway through, until they are tender and lightly browned.

   Roasting brings out the sweetness of the veggies and adds a delicious depth to the pasta.

4. Cook the pasta: While the vegetables roast, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add your pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente (usually 8-11 minutes). Reserve 1/4 cup of pasta water, then drain using a colander.
5. Make the basil pesto: In a food processor or blender, combine basil leaves, pine nuts, garlic, parmesan cheese, lemon juice, and a generous pinch of salt and pepper. Pulse a few times to chop.
   • With the motor running, slowly drizzle in 1/3 to 1/2 cup olive oil until the mixture is creamy and smooth.
   • Scrape down the sides as needed. Taste and adjust salt, pepper, and lemon juice as desired.

   Don’t over-blend—some texture makes homemade pesto truly special!

6. Toss pasta and veggies: Return the drained pasta to the pot. Add the roasted vegetables and all of the pesto. Toss well to coat everything evenly, adding a splash of reserved pasta water if needed for extra creaminess.
7. Serve: Divide pasta into bowls. Top with extra parmesan, a drizzle of olive oil, and a few fresh basil leaves if desired. Enjoy immediately while warm!

Tips & Variations

• Make it vegan: Use vegan parmesan or nutritional yeast instead of dairy cheese. The pesto stays rich and flavorful.
• Try different veggies: Use what’s in season or on hand—broccoli florets, asparagus, eggplant, or mushrooms work beautifully.
• Nut-free pesto: Substitute sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds for pine nuts if you have allergies.
• Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a squeeze of sriracha to the pesto for a little heat.
• Leftover pesto: Store any extra in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week, or freeze in ice cube trays for quick use in soups or sandwiches.
• Gluten-free: Use your favorite gluten-free pasta and double-check your cheese for gluten-free certification.
• Batch cooking: Double the pesto batch and keep some on hand for quick, healthy meals all week long!

“Fresh basil is a powerhouse herb—not only for flavor but also for nutrition and versatility. Let it inspire you to try new plant-based dishes!”

Nutrition Facts

This recipe is as nourishing as it is delicious. Here’s an approximate breakdown per serving (based on 4 servings):

Nutrition will vary based on pasta, cheese, and added veggies used.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with a crisp salad: A simple arugula or spinach salad with lemon vinaigrette balances the creamy pasta perfectly.
• Serve with homemade bread: Try our Vegan Bread Maker Recipe for Soft and Delicious Loaves for a hearty side that soaks up every bit of pesto!
• Make a meal spread: Add a bowl of High Protein Vegan Soup Recipes for Healthy Meals to create a cozy, nourishing dinner.
• For a festive touch: Serve alongside vibrant appetizers from our Vegetarian Recipes for Cinco de Mayo: Festive & Easy Idea.
• Lunchbox-friendly: This pasta tastes great cold or at room temperature, making it a perfect lunch for work or school.
• Picnic perfect: Pack with a side of mixed olives, fruit, and sparkling water for a fresh outdoor meal.

Conclusion

Basil is more than just a garnish—it’s the heart of countless unforgettable vegetarian recipes. This Creamy Basil Pesto Pasta with Roasted Vegetables is proof that simple, wholesome ingredients can come together to create something truly special.

Whether you’re feeding your family, impressing friends, or meal-prepping for the week, this dish brings the garden to your plate in the most delicious way.

Let basil inspire you to explore new flavors and cuisines. If you’re looking for more plant-based creativity, don’t miss our Veggie Quesadilla Recipe Indian Style Easy & Delicious, or expand your horizons with Vegan Cuban Recipes: Delicious Plant-Based Island Flavor.

There’s a world of flavor waiting for you—one basil leaf at a time!

What’s your favorite way to use basil in vegetarian cooking? Share your ideas and let’s celebrate fresh, vibrant meals together.

Happy cooking!

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