No Cook Basil, Walnut And Garlic Sauce
A vibrant, no-cook basil, walnut, and garlic sauce with rich flavors, perfect for tossing with hot pasta for a quick, flavorful meal.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine basil, walnuts, black olives, garlic, parsley, Parmesan cheese, and olive oil in a small bowl.
- Stir to blend all ingredients thoroughly.
- Toss the sauce with hot pasta until well coated.
- Serve immediately.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a few tablespoons of Greek yogurt or cream cheese. You can substitute walnuts with pine nuts or almonds if desired. Fresh herbs like cilantro or mint can also add a unique twist. To enhance the flavor, lightly toast the nuts before adding them to the sauce. This sauce is perfect for tossing with pasta or drizzling over grilled vegetables.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this vibrant sauce over your favorite pasta for a quick meal. It pairs beautifully with grilled chicken or fish, making it a versatile option for a weeknight dinner. For a complete Mediterranean meal, consider serving it alongside a fresh salad or your favorite Mediterranean recipes. It also works well as a dip for crusty bread or as a topping for bruschetta.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm the sauce in a pan over low heat, adding a splash of olive oil if it thickens too much. Note that the fresh flavor is best enjoyed right after making, so only prepare what you need.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of No Cook Basil, Walnut And Garlic Sauce contains roughly 550 calories, with 14g protein, 38g carbohydrates, and 39g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (56% of the Daily Value), protein (29% of the Daily Value), and calcium (24% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 597mg per serving (26% 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 sauce ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the sauce a few hours in advance. Just keep it covered in the refrigerator until you're ready to use it. However, for the best flavor and freshness, it's recommended to serve it shortly after making.
What type of pasta works best with this sauce?
This sauce is versatile but works especially well with long pasta like spaghetti or fettuccine. The sauce clings beautifully to the strands, ensuring each bite is flavorful. However, feel free to use any pasta shape you prefer.
Is this sauce suitable for vegetarians?
Absolutely! This sauce is entirely vegetarian, making it a perfect choice for those following a vegetarian diet. The fresh basil and nuts provide a rich flavor without the need for meat, and it's a great addition to any vegetarian recipes.
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).