Are you craving a quick, healthy, and incredibly delicious dinner? Look no further! This vibrant green sauce pasta recipe is your answer. Forget complicated cooking techniques and lengthy prep times; this dish is all about fresh, vibrant flavors coming together in minutes to create a truly satisfying meal. It’s perfect for busy weeknights, a light lunch, or even a sophisticated dinner party. This easy recipe is a testament to how simple ingredients can create a truly memorable culinary experience. Let's dive into this fantastic recipe!
Ingredients:
- 1 pound pasta (linguine, fettuccine, or spaghetti work well)
- 2 cups packed fresh basil leaves
- 1 cup packed fresh parsley leaves
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ¼ cup pine nuts (toasted)
- 2 cloves garlic
- ¼ cup extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Optional: ½ cup cooked chickpeas or white beans for added protein
Instructions:
Get Started:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package directions until al dente. Reserve about ½ cup of pasta water before draining.
Prepare the Green Sauce:
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While the pasta cooks, toast the pine nuts in a dry skillet over medium heat until lightly golden brown. Set aside to cool.
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Combine the basil, parsley, Parmesan cheese, toasted pine nuts, garlic, olive oil, and lemon juice in a food processor. Pulse until finely chopped but still slightly textured. Don't over-process; you want some texture in your sauce.
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Season the sauce generously with salt and pepper to taste. If the sauce is too thick, add a little pasta water, a tablespoon at a time, until you reach your desired consistency.
Combine & Serve:
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Add the drained pasta to the green sauce and toss to coat evenly. If desired, stir in the cooked chickpeas or white beans.
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Serve immediately, garnished with extra Parmesan cheese and a drizzle of olive oil if you like.
Tips & Variations:
- For a richer flavor: Add a tablespoon of nutritional yeast to the sauce.
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce for a little heat.
- Make it vegan: Omit the Parmesan cheese and use nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor.
- Add some vegetables: Roasted vegetables like broccoli, zucchini, or bell peppers would be a delicious addition.
- Adjust the herbs: Feel free to experiment with other fresh herbs like mint, cilantro, or oregano.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This information is an estimate and will vary depending on the specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 400-500
- Protein: 15-20g
- Fat: 20-25g
- Carbohydrates: 50-60g
This healthy and delicious green sauce pasta is a perfect example of quick dinner ideas and easy recipes that don't compromise on flavor. It's a versatile recipe that easily adapts to your preferences and dietary needs. Enjoy this homemade cooking masterpiece! This recipe is among the best recipes for its ease, healthiness, and unforgettable taste. It's a guaranteed crowd-pleaser for any occasion.