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Creamy Basil Pesto Pasta Recipe

Bowl of Creamy Basil Pesto Pasta alfredo noodles garnished with a sprig of fresh basil leaves.
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Hare Krishna Creamy Basil Pesto Pasta is a rich and satisfying dish, inspired by the principles of bhakti yoga. This pasta recipe uses fresh basil, almonds, nutritional yeast, and olive oil to create a creamy and flavorful pesto sauce that can be enjoyed at any time of day. In the tradition of Gaudiya Vaishnavism, preparing and offering food to Krishna is an act of love and devotion, known as bhakti. Each dish is prepared with care, mindfulness, and a pure heart, making it not just a meal but a spiritual offering.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Pesto Sauce:

  • 2 cups fresh basil leaves, packed (about 100g)
  • 1/4 cup almonds, blanched
  • 2 tablespoons nutritional yeast
  • 1/4 cup olive oil (60 ml)
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon hing (asafoetida)
  • 2–3 tablespoons water (optional, for thinning)

For the Pasta:

  • 8 ounces whole wheat or gluten-free pasta (225g)
  • Salt, for pasta water

Instructions

  1. Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  2. Prepare the Pesto Sauce: In a blender or food processor, combine fresh basil leaves, almonds, nutritional yeast, olive oil, salt, and hing. Blend until smooth. Add water if needed to achieve the desired consistency.
  3. Combine Pasta and Pesto: Toss the cooked pasta with the pesto sauce until well coated.
  4. Serve Hot: Serve the creamy basil pesto pasta hot with your favorite side dish.

Notes

  • Variation: Add sun-dried tomatoes or olives to the pasta for extra flavor.
  • Storage: Store any leftover pesto sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Use as needed.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://harekrishnarecipes.com/recipes/hybrid-menu/creamy-basil-pesto-pasta-recipe/