Savor the vibrant flavors of this Nut-Free Pasta al Pesto, a fresh and allergy-friendly twist on the Italian classic. This quick and easy recipe replaces traditional pine nuts with nutrient-rich sunflower seeds, creating a creamy pesto that's perfect for those avoiding nuts. Fresh basil, grated Parmesan, garlic, and a splash of lemon juice come together in a velvety sauce that clings to your favorite pasta for a meal that's both comforting and sophisticated. Ready in just 25 minutes, this dish is ideal for busy weeknights or an elegant dinner at home. Garnish with extra Parmesan for a final touch, and enjoy a deliciously nut-free take on a beloved tradition.
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/4 cup of pasta water, then drain and set aside.
In a food processor, combine the basil leaves, sunflower seeds, grated Parmesan cheese, and garlic cloves. Pulse until the mixture is finely chopped.
With the processor running, slowly stream in the extra virgin olive oil and lemon juice until the pesto becomes creamy and smooth.
Season the pesto with salt and black pepper to taste.
In a large mixing bowl or directly in the pot used for cooking pasta, combine the cooked pasta with the nut-free pesto sauce.
Add reserved pasta water a little at a time, stirring until the pasta is well-coated and the sauce reaches your desired consistency.
Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.
Serve immediately, garnished with additional Parmesan cheese if desired.
Serving size | 748.6 grams (748.6g) |
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Amount per serving | % Daily Value* |
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Calories | 2197 |
Total Fat 163.90g | 210% |
Saturated Fat 28.30g | 142% |
Polyunsaturated Fat 23.70g | |
Cholesterol 40mg | 13% |
Sodium 1868mg | 81% |
Total Carbohydrate 145.40g | 53% |
Dietary Fiber 16.80g | 60% |
Total Sugars 5.50g | |
Protein 55.00g | 110% |
Vitamin D 0IU | 0% |
Calcium 584mg | 45% |
Iron 8mg | 44% |
Potassium 966mg | 21% |
Source of Calories