Whole Wheat Basil Pasta
Savor the wholesome goodness of this Whole Wheat Basil Pasta, a quick and flavorful recipe that perfectly blends heart-healthy ingredients with vibrant Italian-inspired flavors. Made with nutrient-rich whole wheat pasta, fresh basil leaves, and a simple garlic-infused olive oil sauce, this dish is a celebration of freshness and simplicity. The toasted pine nuts add a delicate crunch (optional but highly recommended), while a generous sprinkle of parmesan cheese lends a savory, creamy finish. Ready in just 30 minutes, this easy-to-make pasta is perfect for a busy weeknight dinner yet elegant enough for entertaining guests. Serve it warm with a side of crusty bread or a fresh garden salad, and enjoy a wholesome, delicious meal packed with earthy, aromatic flavors. Perfect for pasta lovers looking for a healthy twist, this recipe is sure to become a new favorite in your home.
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Recipe Information
Ingredients
- 250 grams whole wheat pasta
- 1 cup fresh basil leaves
- 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 2 garlic cloves
- 0.25 cup parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 0.5 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons pine nuts (optional)
- 4 liters water
Instructions
Bring 4 liters of water to a boil in a large pot. Add 1 teaspoon of salt to the water.
Add the whole wheat pasta to the boiling water and cook according to the package instructions, typically 8-12 minutes for al dente.
While the pasta is cooking, mince the garlic cloves finely.
Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Be careful not to brown the garlic.
If using pine nuts, toast them in a separate dry skillet over medium heat for 2-3 minutes until golden and fragrant. Set aside.
Once the pasta is cooked, reserve 1/2 cup of the pasta cooking water and then drain the pasta.
Add the drained pasta directly to the skillet with the sautéed garlic. Stir to coat the pasta with the garlic and oil mixture.
Add the fresh basil leaves, remaining olive oil, and a splash of the reserved pasta water to the skillet. Toss everything together until the basil wilts slightly and the pasta is evenly coated. Add more pasta water if needed to loosen the sauce.
Stir in the parmesan cheese, and toss again to combine.
Season with black pepper and additional salt to taste. Sprinkle with toasted pine nuts, if using, before serving.
Serve warm, garnished with a few fresh basil leaves and an extra sprinkle of parmesan cheese if desired.
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
902 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 62.4 g | 80% | |
| Saturated Fat | 11.7 g | 58% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.0 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 22 mg | 7% | |
| Sodium | 2654 mg | 115% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 72.9 g | 27% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 13.0 g | 46% | |
| Total Sugars | 2.9 g | ||
| Protein | 24.9 g | 50% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 546 mg | 42% | |
| Iron | 5.2 mg | 29% | |
| Potassium | 602 mg | 13% | |
*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.
