Linguini Al Pesto
Fresh basil and parsley mingle with garlic butter to create a bright, herbaceous pasta sauce that pairs perfectly with al dente linguini—ideal for quick weeknight dinners or garden gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Saute the garlic in butter and margarine until lightly golden.
- Add the basil and parsley and cook for one minute, then add the pine nuts.
- Cook the linguini according to package directions.
- Drain the pasta well and serve on a large dish topped with the pesto sauce and fresh ground pepper.
- Sprinkle grated cheese (such as Parmesan) on top if desired.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider toasting the pine nuts in a dry skillet until golden before adding them to the sauce. If you don't have fresh basil, you can substitute with a smaller amount of dried basil, though the flavor will differ. Alternatively, try using fresh spinach for a different twist. Serve with a side of crusty bread to soak up the sauce, or pair with Italian recipes for a complete meal.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the linguini al pesto with a sprinkle of freshly grated cheese, such as Parmesan or Pecorino Romano. It pairs wonderfully with a light salad or a side of roasted vegetables. For a complete Italian-inspired meal, consider serving it alongside Minestrone Soup to round out the flavors.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm the pasta in a skillet with a splash of olive oil or water to prevent sticking. Avoid using the microwave if possible, as it can make the pasta gummy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Linguini Al Pesto contains roughly 859 calories, with 18g protein, 89g carbohydrates, and 58g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (110% of the Daily Value), iron (80% of the Daily Value), and calcium (48% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 545mg per serving (24% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this recipe vegan?
Yes, you can easily make this recipe vegan by substituting the butter and margarine with a plant-based butter alternative. Omit the cheese or use a vegan cheese for topping. The flavor will still be delicious and satisfying.
What can I use instead of pine nuts?
If you don't have pine nuts, you can substitute them with walnuts or sunflower seeds for a similar texture. Both options will provide a nutty flavor that complements the pesto beautifully, making it a great alternative.
How can I make the sauce creamier?
To achieve a creamier sauce, consider adding a splash of heavy cream or a few tablespoons of cream cheese to the pesto mixture after sautéing the garlic. This will give the sauce a rich, smooth texture that pairs perfectly with the linguini.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).