Indulge in the creamy richness of Pasta in Almond Garlic Sauce, a heavenly dish that combines toasted almonds, fresh garlic, and fragrant basil for a nutty, flavorful twist on classic pasta. This quick and easy recipe features a velvety almond-based sauce that's blended with Parmesan cheese, olive oil, and a splash of lemon juice, creating a luxurious coating for your favorite pasta shape. Perfect for weeknight dinners or an impressive meatless main, this dish is brought to life with a touch of freshly ground black pepper and optional crushed red pepper flakes for a hint of spice. Whether you're looking for a gluten-free option (with alternate pasta) or simply craving something unique, this satisfying pasta recipe is sure to impress. Serve it warm with fresh basil and a sprinkle of extra Parmesan for a finishing touch thatβs as beautiful as it is delicious.
Bring a large pot of water to a rolling boil. Add a generous pinch of salt and cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta and set it aside.
While the pasta cooks, toast the almonds. Heat a small, dry skillet over medium heat. Add the almonds and toss frequently for about 3-4 minutes or until they are golden and fragrant. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
In a blender or food processor, combine toasted almonds, garlic cloves, olive oil, Parmesan cheese, fresh basil leaves, lemon juice, salt, and ground black pepper. Blend until the mixture becomes a thick, smooth paste.
With the blender running on low speed, gradually add about 1/2 cup of the reserved pasta water to thin the almond garlic sauce to your desired consistency. Add additional pasta water as needed.
Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning with more salt, pepper, or lemon juice, if desired.
In a large skillet or saucepan, combine the cooked pasta and almond garlic sauce over low heat. Toss well to coat the pasta evenly with the sauce. If the sauce seems too thick, add a splash more of the reserved pasta water.
Serve the pasta immediately, garnished with crushed red pepper flakes (if desired) and extra Parmesan cheese. Enjoy your Pasta in Almond Garlic Sauce!
Calories |
1681 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 109.0 g | 140% | |
| Saturated Fat | 19.8 g | 99% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 16.3 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 40 mg | 13% | |
| Sodium | 3132 mg | 136% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 124.6 g | 45% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 19.5 g | 70% | |
| Total Sugars | 6.5 g | ||
| Protein | 59.4 g | 119% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.5 mcg | 2% | |
| Calcium | 879 mg | 68% | |
| Iron | 7.8 mg | 43% | |
| Potassium | 1062 mg | 23% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.