Basil Hemp Pesto Pasta Recipe

What Is Basil Hemp Pesto Pasta?

This vibrant dish is a delightful twist on traditional Italian pesto, blending fresh basil leaves with nutrient-rich hemp seeds for a nutty undertone. The creamy, herbaceous sauce coats tender pasta, offering a fresh, wholesome flavor that’s both satisfying and unique.

What Makes This Recipe Anti-Inflammatory?

Hemp seeds are packed with omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids in a perfect ratio, known to help reduce inflammation in the body. Combined with basil’s natural antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds, this pesto promotes a calming effect on cellular inflammation.

Additionally, the use of extra-virgin olive oil, rich in polyphenols, boosts the recipe’s anti-inflammatory profile. Together, these ingredients create a balanced meal that supports overall wellness while delighting your palate.

Ingredients

• 12 oz whole wheat or gluten-free pasta
• 2 cups fresh basil leaves, packed
• 1/3 cup hemp seeds
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1/2 cup extra-virgin olive oil
• 1/4 cup nutritional yeast (optional, for a cheesy flavor)
• Juice of 1 lemon
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• Cherry tomatoes and toasted pine nuts for garnish (optional)

Directions

Step 1

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving 1/2 cup of pasta water.

Step 2

In a food processor, combine the basil leaves, hemp seeds, minced garlic, nutritional yeast, and lemon juice. Pulse until coarsely blended.

Step 3

With the processor running, slowly drizzle in the olive oil until the mixture forms a smooth, creamy pesto. Add salt and pepper to taste.

Step 4

Transfer the cooked pasta to a large bowl and toss with the hemp pesto, adding reserved pasta water a little at a time to achieve the desired consistency.

Step 5

Garnish with halved cherry tomatoes and toasted pine nuts if desired. Serve immediately and enjoy a fresh, anti-inflammatory meal!

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

InflammaScore

1 Good! Very low inflammation potential

Q&A

Q1: What are the key ingredients that make Basil Hemp Pesto unique compared to traditional pesto?
A1: Basil Hemp Pesto swaps out pine nuts or walnuts with nutrient-rich hemp seeds, adding a subtle nutty flavor and boosting the dish with plant-based protein and omega fatty acids, while retaining the fresh, herbal brightness of basil.

Q2: Can this Basil Hemp Pesto be used in dishes other than pasta?
A2: Absolutely! This versatile pesto shines as a spread on sandwiches, a drizzle over roasted vegetables, or a dip for fresh bread and crackers, making it a flavorful addition beyond just pasta.

Q3: How do you ensure the pesto has a smooth and creamy texture?
A3: Using a food processor or high-speed blender, blend the basil, hemp seeds, garlic, olive oil, and Parmesan until silky. Adjust olive oil quantity to reach your preferred creaminess, and don’t forget to season with salt and a hint of lemon juice for brightness.

Q4: Is Basil Hemp Pesto suitable for people with nut allergies?
A4: Since hemp seeds are seeds, not nuts, this pesto is generally a safer alternative for those with nut allergies. However, always verify ingredient sources and cross-contamination risks to ensure safety.

Q5: What type of pasta pairs best with Basil Hemp Pesto?
A5: While basil hemp pesto complements most pasta shapes, it particularly pairs well with long strands like spaghetti or linguine to evenly coat each strand, or with short, ridged pasta like fusilli that holds onto the pesto’s rich texture beautifully.

With its vibrant blend of fresh basil and nutty hemp seeds, this pesto pasta offers a delicious twist on a classic favorite. Simple to prepare and rich in flavor, it’s a perfect dish to brighten any meal.