Basil Pesto Pasta Recipe With Veggies for Easy Meals

There’s nothing quite like a vibrant plate of basil pesto pasta with veggies to brighten up your weeknight dinners or impress guests at a casual gathering. This recipe combines the fresh, aromatic punch of homemade basil pesto with colorful, crisp vegetables and perfectly cooked pasta to create a dish that’s as nutritious as it is delicious.

Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a kitchen newbie, this recipe is straightforward and adaptable, inviting you to customize it with your favorite seasonal veggies.

Not only does this dish burst with flavors, but it’s also packed with wholesome ingredients, making it a satisfying and healthful meal option. Plus, it’s a wonderful way to sneak in more veggies into your diet without sacrificing taste.

Get ready to enjoy a delightful medley of textures and bright, herbaceous notes that will have you reaching for seconds!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This basil pesto pasta with veggies is a fantastic meal for many reasons. First, it’s incredibly versatile — you can swap in different vegetables or pasta types based on what you have on hand.

The homemade pesto is fresh, vibrant, and far superior to store-bought versions, packed with fragrant basil, toasted pine nuts, and nutty Parmesan (or vegan alternatives).

Additionally, the dish comes together quickly, making it perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute meals. It’s also a great option for vegetarians and can easily be made vegan by skipping the cheese or using plant-based substitutes.

The colorful vegetables add a delightful crunch and a boost of nutrients, turning this pasta into a well-rounded, wholesome dish.

If you’re interested in more fresh and flavorful pasta ideas, be sure to check out our Amazing Vegan Pasta Recipes for Easy Delicious Meals for inspiration.

Ingredients

• 12 oz (340g) pasta (penne, fusilli, or spaghetti work well)
• 2 cups fresh basil leaves, packed
• 1/3 cup pine nuts, toasted
• 2 garlic cloves, peeled
• 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (or vegan Parmesan alternative)
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 medium zucchini, diced
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 1 cup broccoli florets
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional, for brightness)
• Red pepper flakes, for a little kick (optional)

Equipment

• Large pot for boiling pasta
• Colander for draining pasta
• Food processor or blender for pesto
• Large skillet or sauté pan
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Knife and cutting board

Instructions

1. Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve about 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining to help loosen the sauce later.
2. Prepare the pesto: While the pasta cooks, in a food processor, combine basil leaves, toasted pine nuts, and garlic cloves. Pulse until finely chopped.
3. Add olive oil and cheese: With the processor running, slowly drizzle in the extra virgin olive oil until the mixture is smooth. Add the Parmesan cheese, and pulse a few times to combine. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Optionally, add a squeeze of lemon juice for extra brightness.
4. Sauté the vegetables: Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add a tablespoon of olive oil if needed. Add the diced zucchini, red bell pepper, broccoli florets, and cherry tomatoes. Sauté for 5-7 minutes until vegetables are tender but still crisp. Season with salt and pepper.
5. Combine pasta and pesto: Add the drained pasta to the skillet with the sautéed veggies. Spoon in the prepared pesto and toss well to coat everything evenly. If the mixture is too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce.
6. Adjust seasoning: Taste and add more salt, pepper, or red pepper flakes if you like a bit of heat. Toss again and remove from heat.
7. Serve immediately: Garnish with extra Parmesan or fresh basil leaves if desired. Enjoy your vibrant, healthy basil pesto pasta with veggies!

Tips & Variations

“For the best pesto, always use fresh, vibrant basil leaves and toast your pine nuts to bring out their rich flavor.”

• Make it vegan: Use nutritional yeast or vegan Parmesan instead of cheese.
• Switch up the nuts: Try walnuts, almonds, or cashews if pine nuts are unavailable or pricey.
• Roast the veggies: Instead of sautéing, roast your vegetables in the oven for a deeper, caramelized flavor.
• Add protein: Toss in chickpeas, grilled tofu, or white beans for a heartier meal.
• Use different pasta: Whole wheat, gluten-free, or legume-based pasta like chickpea or lentil pasta add nutritional benefits and texture.
• Make ahead: Prepare the pesto a day in advance and store it in the fridge. It keeps well and flavors deepen over time.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

This basil pesto pasta with veggies makes a fantastic main dish for lunch or dinner. Pair it with a crisp green salad or some crusty garlic bread to round out the meal.

A light white wine like Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc complements the fresh basil and garlic flavors beautifully.

For a complete vegan feast, consider trying it alongside dishes from our Cheap Vegetarian Recipes For Families Everyone Will Love collection or adding a refreshing side from our Best Vegan Salad Bowl Recipes for Fresh Healthy Meals.

Conclusion

Whether you’re cooking for yourself, family, or friends, this basil pesto pasta with veggies recipe is a delightful way to enjoy a fresh, healthy meal that doesn’t skimp on flavor. The homemade pesto brings a burst of herbal goodness, while the sautéed vegetables add color, crunch, and nutrition.

It’s a simple, quick, and versatile recipe that can easily be adapted to suit your dietary preferences or what’s available in your kitchen.

Not only is it delicious, but it also encourages you to incorporate more fresh herbs and vegetables into your diet. Perfect for spring and summer when basil is at its peak, this dish will soon become a favorite go-to in your recipe collection.

For more vibrant vegetarian ideas, explore our A to Z Vegetarian Recipes for Every Meal and Occasion.

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