Pasta al Pesto
Pasta al Pesto is a classic Italian dish originating from Genoa, Liguria, featuring pasta tossed with a vibrant, aromatic sauce made from fresh basil, pine nuts, garlic, Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese, Pecorino cheese, and high-quality olive oil. It is traditionally served with trofie or trenette pasta, though many shapes work well.
🍽️ Nutrition at a glance
This dish is moderate to high in carbohydrates from the pasta and healthy fats from the olive oil and nuts, with a good amount of protein from the cheese. A typical serving provides around 500-700 calories, along with beneficial nutrients like vitamin K from basil, antioxidants, and calcium.
Nutrition breakdown
| Calories | 480 kcal |
| Protein | 12 g |
| Carbs | 52 g |
| Fat | 26 g |
| Fiber | 4 g |
| Sugar | 4 g |
| Sodium | 650 mg |
| Potassium | 380 mg |
| Vitamin K | 45 mcg |
| Vitamin A | 1200 IU |
| Vitamin C | 8 mg |
| Calcium | 150 mg |
| Iron | 3 mg |
| Magnesium | 60 mg |
| Phosphorus | 180 mg |
Per 1 cup (240 g) · estimated, varies by recipe
💡 What's interesting
Pesto alla Genovese is a protected traditional recipe in Italy, and its fresh, no-cook sauce method preserves the basil's bright flavor and nutrients. The combination of raw ingredients creates a nutrient-dense profile, offering anti-inflammatory compounds and heart-healthy monounsaturated fats.
