Save to Pinterest Experience a delightful twist on a classic favorite with this Creamy Sunflower Seed Pesto Pasta. This dish reimagines traditional pesto by using nutty sunflower seeds as a budget-friendly and flavorful alternative to pine nuts. Combined with fresh basil, garlic, and a touch of cream, it creates a velvety, emerald-green sauce that clings perfectly to your favorite pasta shape.
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Whether you're looking for a quick dinner or a comforting vegetarian meal, this pasta brings a vibrant freshness to your table with minimal effort. It is simple enough for a Tuesday night but elegant enough to serve to guests.
Ingredients
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- 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 (spaghetti, penne, or fusilli), salt for pasta water
- Creaminess: 1/2 cup heavy cream or unsweetened plant-based cream
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. Reserve 1/2 cup of the pasta water, then drain the pasta.
- 2. Toast the Seeds
- While the pasta cooks, toast the sunflower seeds in a dry skillet over medium heat for 3–4 minutes until they are golden and fragrant. Let them cool slightly.
- 3. Prepare the Pesto Base
- In a food processor, combine the toasted sunflower seeds, basil, garlic, Parmesan, olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Pulse until a coarse paste forms, scraping down the sides as needed.
- 4. Blend until Smooth
- Add water to the processor and blend until the mixture is smooth and creamy. Adjust the consistency with more water if necessary.
- 5. Toss and Emulsify
- Return the drained pasta to the pot over low heat. Add the pesto and cream, tossing well to coat. Add the reserved pasta water a little at a time until the sauce reaches your desired consistency.
- 6. Season and Serve
- Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt, pepper, or extra lemon juice. Serve immediately, garnished with extra Parmesan and fresh basil leaves.
Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung
To ensure the best flavor, don't skip toasting the sunflower seeds; this step unlocks a deep, nutty aroma that defines the dish. Always remember to reserve some pasta water before draining, as the starchy liquid is the secret to getting a perfectly emulsified, glossy sauce.
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Varianten und Anpassungen
For a vegan version, simply substitute the Parmesan cheese with nutritional yeast and use an unsweetened plant-based cream. You can also boost the nutritional value by adding cooked vegetables such as green peas, fresh spinach, or roasted cherry tomatoes to the finished pasta.
Serviervorschläge
Serve this pasta warm, ideally topped with a generous sprinkle of extra grated Parmesan and hand-torn basil leaves. It pairs wonderfully with a crisp white wine, such as a Sauvignon Blanc, which complements the bright lemon and basil notes of the pesto.
Save to Pinterest This Creamy Sunflower Seed Pesto Pasta is a testament to how simple, affordable ingredients can be transformed into a gourmet-style meal. With its vibrant color and rich taste, it’s bound to become a new staple in your recipe rotation.
Recipe FAQ
- → Can I make sunflower seed pesto ahead of time?
Yes, store the pesto in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Toss it with pasta and cream just before serving. You can also freeze pesto for up to 2 months.
- → What pasta shapes work best with this pesto?
Spaghetti, penne, fusilli, and tagliatelle all work wonderfully. Choose based on your preference—hollow or ridged shapes hold the pesto sauce beautifully.
- → How do I make this dish vegan?
Replace Parmesan with nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor, and use unsweetened plant-based cream instead of heavy cream. The toasted sunflower seeds and olive oil provide richness without dairy.
- → Why toast the sunflower seeds?
Toasting brings out the seeds' nutty flavor and creates a deeper, more complex taste in the pesto. It takes just 3-4 minutes and makes a noticeable difference in the final dish.
- → What can I add to customize this dish?
Mix in cooked peas, fresh spinach, roasted cherry tomatoes, or sautéed mushrooms. Pine nuts can partially replace sunflower seeds for a traditional twist. Fresh lemon zest also brightens the flavors.
- → How do I achieve the right sauce consistency?
Use reserved pasta water to adjust thickness. Add it gradually while tossing until the sauce coats the pasta smoothly. The sauce should cling to each strand without pooling at the bottom.
