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Basil Pesto Pasta with Grilled Vegetables

Elina James
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Course Pasta
Cuisine Italian
Servings 4 servings
Calories 300 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • For the Pasta
  • 12 oz (340 g) pasta (penne, fusilli, or spaghetti)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • Salt, for pasta water
  • For the Grilled Vegetables
  • 1 medium zucchini, sliced
  • 1 red bell pepper, sliced
  • 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
  • For the Basil Pesto
  • 2 cups fresh basil leaves
  • ¼ cup pine nuts (or walnuts)
  • ½ cup Parmesan cheese, grated
  • 2–3 cloves garlic
  • ½ cup olive oil
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • Optional: squeeze of lemon juice for brightness

Instructions
 

  • Cook Pasta : Boil pasta in salted water according to package directions until al dente. Drain and toss lightly with 1 tablespoon olive oil to prevent sticking.
  • Prepare and Grill Vegetables : Slice zucchini and bell peppers; keep cherry tomatoes whole. Toss all vegetables in olive oil, salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Heat a grill or grill pan over medium heat. Grill zucchini and bell peppers for 3–5 minutes per side until tender with grill marks. Grill cherry tomatoes for 2–3 minutes until slightly blistered.
  • Make the Basil Pesto : In a food processor, combine basil leaves, pine nuts, Parmesan, garlic, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Blend until smooth. Adjust olive oil or seasoning as needed. Optional: Add a squeeze of lemon juice for extra brightness.
  • Combine Pasta and Vegetables : In a large mixing bowl or skillet, toss the cooked pasta with pesto until well coated. Add grilled vegetables and gently toss to combine.
  • Serve : Divide pasta onto plates or in bowls. Sprinkle with extra Parmesan or a few toasted pine nuts for garnish.