Save to Pinterest Experience a delightful twist on a classic with this Creamy Sunflower Seed Pesto Pasta. By substituting traditional pine nuts with toasted sunflower seeds, this dish offers a rich, nutty depth that is both budget-friendly and incredibly satisfying. Fresh basil, garlic, and a touch of cream come together to create a vibrant sauce that turns simple pasta into a gourmet comforting meal in just 30 minutes.
Save to Pinterest This recipe is perfect for weeknight dinners when time is short but you still crave something fresh and flavorful. The process of toasting the seeds adds a wonderful complexity that pairs beautifully with the herbaceous notes of the basil and the sharp kick of fresh garlic.
Ingredients
- Pesto: 1 cup unsalted sunflower seeds, 2 cups fresh basil leaves (packed), 2 cloves garlic, 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil, 1/4 cup water (plus more as needed), 2 tablespoons lemon juice, 1/4 teaspoon salt, 1/4 teaspoon black pepper.
- Pasta: 400 g (14 oz) dried pasta (e.g., spaghetti, penne, fusilli), Salt for pasta water.
- Creaminess: 1/2 cup heavy cream or unsweetened plant-based cream.
Instructions
- Step 1: Boil the Pasta
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup pasta water, then drain pasta.
- Step 2: Toast the Sunflower Seeds
- While pasta cooks, toast sunflower seeds in a dry skillet over medium heat for 3–4 minutes until golden and fragrant. Let cool slightly.
- Step 3: Pulse the Pesto
- In a food processor, combine toasted sunflower seeds, basil, garlic, Parmesan, olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Pulse until a coarse paste forms, scraping down sides as needed.
- Step 4: Emulsify the Sauce
- Add water and blend until smooth and creamy. Adjust consistency with more water if needed.
- Step 5: Toss and Combine
- Return drained pasta to the pot over low heat. Add pesto and cream, tossing to coat. Add reserved pasta water a little at a time until the sauce reaches your desired consistency.
- Step 6: Finish and Season
- Taste and adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, or lemon juice as needed. Serve immediately, garnished with extra Parmesan and fresh basil if desired.
Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung
To ensure the best results, do not skip toasting the seeds, as this releases their essential oils and provides the signature nutty flavor. When processing the pesto, remember to scrape down the sides of the bowl to ensure every seed is perfectly blended into the sauce.
Varianten und Anpassungen
For a vegan version, substitute the Parmesan cheese with nutritional yeast and use a plant-based cream. You can also boost the nutritional value by adding cooked vegetables like peas, spinach, or roasted cherry tomatoes. For those with dietary restrictions, this recipe works excellently with gluten-free pasta varieties.
Serviervorschläge
Serve this pasta warm, ideally in pre-heated bowls to maintain the sauce's creaminess. A garnish of fresh basil and extra cheese adds a final touch of elegance. This dish pairs exceptionally well with a crisp white wine such as Sauvignon Blanc.
Save to Pinterest This Creamy Sunflower Seed Pesto Pasta is a testament to how simple ingredients can create a truly memorable meal. Whether you are cooking for a family or looking for a comforting solo dinner, this dish is sure to satisfy with its blend of fresh herbs, nutty seeds, and velvety sauce.
Recipe FAQs
- → Can I make this pesto ahead of time?
Yes, the pesto can be prepared up to 2 days in advance and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Keep a thin layer of olive oil on top to prevent browning. Prepare the pasta and combine just before serving for best texture.
- → What pasta shapes work best with this pesto?
Long, thin pasta like spaghetti or linguine works beautifully, as does penne or fusilli. Choose pasta with texture to help the pesto cling. Avoid very delicate shapes that might break under the creamy sauce.
- → How do I make this dairy-free?
Replace Parmesan cheese with nutritional yeast for a similar umami flavor, and swap heavy cream for unsweetened plant-based cream such as oat or cashew. The pesto will be equally delicious and creamy.
- → Why toast the sunflower seeds?
Toasting develops a deeper, richer flavor that enhances the nutty notes of the pesto. It takes just 3-4 minutes and significantly improves the overall taste and aromatic quality of your sauce.
- → Can I add vegetables to this dish?
Absolutely. Stir in cooked peas, fresh spinach, roasted cherry tomatoes, or sautéed mushrooms during the final tossing step. These additions boost nutrition and complement the pesto flavors beautifully.
- → What should I do if the sauce is too thick?
Add reserved pasta water gradually while tossing until you reach your desired consistency. Start with a tablespoon at a time. The pasta water's starch helps the sauce cling to noodles while maintaining proper texture.