Cilantro Pesto Pasta
A vibrant and quick-to-make dish, this Cilantro Pesto Pasta is the perfect solution for a fast weeknight dinner. With a flavorful combination of garlic, ginger, macadamia nuts, and the brightness of fresh lime juice, this pesto is a delightful twist on the traditional basil pesto. The rich, nutty pesto pairs beautifully with al dente spaghetti, creating a satisfying and refreshing meal that’s ready in under 15 minutes. Inspired by the famous 30 Minute Meals from Rachael Ray, this recipe offers both convenience and flavor.
Recipe Category: Spaghetti
Preparation Time: 5 minutes
Cooking Time: 8 minutes
Total Time: 13 minutes
Servings: 4
Calories per Serving: 786.9
Difficulty Level: Easy
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Garlic | 1 clove |
| Crushed red pepper flakes | 2 teaspoons |
| Lime (juice of) | 1 lime |
| Fresh cilantro leaves | 1/2 cup |
| Olive oil | 1/4 cup |
| Coarse salt | 1 teaspoon |
| Spaghetti | 1 lb (450g) |
| Water | 1 cup (for pasta) |
| Macadamia nuts (optional) | 1/2 cup, chopped |
Nutritional Information (per serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 786.9 kcal |
| Fat Content | 41.5 g |
| Saturated Fat Content | 6.1 g |
| Cholesterol Content | 0 mg |
| Sodium Content | 591.4 mg |
| Carbohydrates | 88.8 g |
| Fiber Content | 5.3 g |
| Sugar Content | 3.1 g |
| Protein Content | 16.4 g |
Instructions
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Prepare the pesto: In a food processor, combine the garlic, crushed red pepper flakes, lime juice, cilantro leaves, olive oil, and coarse salt. Pulse until the mixture becomes smooth and well-blended. The ginger and macadamia nuts will give the pesto an unexpected richness and a delightful twist on the traditional flavor profile. If you like a smoother pesto, you can continue blending for a bit longer.
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Cook the spaghetti: While preparing the pesto, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti and cook according to the package instructions until al dente, about 8 minutes. Be sure to reserve about 1 cup of pasta water before draining, as it will help loosen the pesto when mixing.
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Combine the pesto and pasta: Drain the pasta, then immediately toss it in a large bowl with the cilantro pesto. Add the reserved pasta water, a little at a time, until the pesto reaches your desired consistency. The pasta water will help emulsify the pesto and create a creamy, glossy sauce that perfectly coats the spaghetti.
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Serve: Divide the pasta into bowls and sprinkle with extra macadamia nuts for crunch and garnish, if desired. Serve hot, and enjoy the delicious fusion of flavors!
Tips for Success
- Make ahead: This pesto can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge for up to 2 days. Just give it a quick stir or pulse in the food processor before using to refresh its texture.
- Nutty variations: While macadamia nuts are a fantastic choice, feel free to experiment with other nuts like cashews or walnuts for different textures and flavors.
- Spice it up: If you enjoy more heat, increase the amount of crushed red pepper flakes or add a dash of hot sauce to the pesto for an extra kick.
- Vegan adaptation: To make this recipe vegan, simply replace the spaghetti with a gluten-free or plant-based variety and ensure the pesto contains no dairy (this recipe naturally contains no dairy!).
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Cilantro Pesto Pasta is the perfect balance of spicy, nutty, and tangy, with a rich pesto that complements the lightness of spaghetti. The use of macadamia nuts adds a velvety smoothness to the pesto, while ginger and lime infuse it with a zesty punch that brightens the whole dish. Whether you’re looking for an easy weeknight dinner or a fresh new take on pesto, this recipe will surely become a favorite in your kitchen. Ready in just 13 minutes, it’s the ultimate solution for a fast, flavorful meal that packs a punch!
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- Basil Pesto Chicken: Pair a classic basil pesto with grilled chicken for a hearty meal.
