Pasta with Pesto
Pasta with Pesto is a classic Italian dish featuring pasta tossed in a vibrant, uncooked sauce made from fresh basil, pine nuts, garlic, Parmesan cheese, and olive oil. Originating from Genoa in the Liguria region of Italy, it celebrates simple, high-quality ingredients to create a rich, aromatic flavor profile.
🍽️ Nutrition at a glance
This dish is typically high in carbohydrates from the pasta and healthy fats from the olive oil and nuts, with a moderate amount of protein from the cheese and nuts. A standard serving provides energy, along with key nutrients like vitamin K from basil, antioxidants, and calcium, generally ranging from 500 to 700 calories per serving depending on portion size and exact ingredients.
Nutrition breakdown
| Calories | 450 kcal |
| Protein | 12 g |
| Carbs | 45 g |
| Fat | 25 g |
| Fiber | 3 g |
| Sugar | 4 g |
| Sodium | 600 mg |
| Potassium | 350 mg |
| Vitamin A | 300 mcg |
| Vitamin K | 80 mcg |
| Vitamin C | 10 mg |
| Calcium | 150 mg |
| Iron | 2.5 mg |
| Magnesium | 60 mg |
| Phosphorus | 180 mg |
Per 1 cup (240 g) · estimated, varies by recipe
💡 What's interesting
Culturally, pesto represents the Italian philosophy of 'cucina povera' (peasant cooking), transforming humble, local ingredients into a luxurious sauce. Nutritionally, the raw preparation of the sauce preserves the delicate flavors and nutrients of fresh basil, which is known for its anti-inflammatory properties.
