How long does it take to make Basil Microgreen Pesto Pasta?
This recipe takes approximately 25 min total.
25 min
· Serves 2
· Updated March 6, 2026
South First location, 9AM–1PM. See market details →
Basil microgreens are best added fresh as a finishing ingredient. A creamy pasta dish that brings together the freshness of basil microgreens with a rich pesto sauce, perfect for any weeknight meal. Inspired by traditional Italian flavors.
This recipe takes approximately 25 min total.
Basil microgreens work best as a fresh finishing ingredient, adding color, texture, and a just-cut flavor that stands out right before serving.
200 grams pasta of choice
1 cup basil microgreens
1/4 cup pine nuts, toasted
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 clove garlic, minced
1/4 cup olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
Cook pasta according to package instructions, then drain and set aside.
In a food processor, combine basil microgreens, pine nuts, Parmesan cheese, and garlic.
While processing, slowly drizzle in olive oil until the mixture is smooth.
Toss the cooked pasta with the pesto, adding salt and pepper to taste.
Serve warm, garnished with additional basil microgreens and Parmesan if desired.
Basil microgreens carry the recognizable aromatic profile of fresh basil — linalool, eugenol, and other volatile compounds — and are used as a direct 1:1 garnish substitute for fresh basil in small quantities. Dark Opal Basil adds additional anthocyanin-based purple pigmentation.
• Basil and its aromatic relatives contain volatile essential oil compounds studied for flavor, aroma, and culinary stability.
moderate evidence• Essential oil profile in basil microgreens varies by cultivar, with purple basil varieties known for anthocyanin pigmentation.
strong evidence1. Assessment of Vitamin and Carotenoid Concentrations of Emerging Food Products: Edible Microgreens — Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry, 2012
2. Microgreens: Production, Shelf Life, and Bioactive Components — Critical Reviews in Food Science and Nutrition, 2017