ChefPax
ShopRecipesFarmers Market
Sign In
AI-generated (gpt-image-1)
Basil Microgreens Pesto Pasta Delight

Basil Microgreens Pesto Pasta Delight

20 min

· Serves 2

· Updated March 26, 2026

ChefPax Microgreens test kitchen — grown and curated in Manor, TX
This vibrant pasta dish features a fresh basil microgreens pesto that elevates your weeknight meals with its bold flavors and vibrant color.
pasta
quick
vegetarian
healthy
Available Saturdays at SFC Farmers Market

South First location, 9AM–1PM. See market details →

How do you use Basil microgreens in Basil Microgreens Pesto Pasta Delight?

Basil microgreens are best added fresh as a finishing ingredient. This vibrant pasta dish features a fresh basil microgreens pesto that elevates your weeknight meals with its bold flavors and vibrant color.

How long does it take to make Basil Microgreens Pesto Pasta Delight?

This recipe takes approximately 20 min total.

What does Basil add to this recipe?

Basil microgreens work best as a fresh finishing ingredient, adding color, texture, and a just-cut flavor that stands out right before serving.

Ingredients

  • 200g spaghetti

  • 1 cup basil microgreens

  • 1/4 cup pine nuts, toasted

  • 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese, grated

  • 1 clove garlic, minced

  • 1/2 cup olive oil

  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  • 1

    Cook the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente, then drain and set aside.

  • 2

    In a food processor, combine basil microgreens, pine nuts, Parmesan cheese, garlic, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Blend until smooth.

  • 3

    With the processor running, slowly drizzle in the olive oil until the pesto reaches your desired consistency.

  • 4

    Toss the cooked spaghetti with the pesto until fully coated. If needed, add a bit of pasta water to loosen.

  • 5

    Serve warm, garnished with additional basil microgreens and a sprinkle of Parmesan.

Sources & Chef Credits

Nutrition Authority

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.

What the evidence supports

  • 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 evidence

References

  • 1. Assessment of Vitamin and Carotenoid Concentrations of Emerging Food Products: Edible MicrogreensJournal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry, 2012

  • 2. Microgreens: Production, Shelf Life, and Bioactive ComponentsCritical Reviews in Food Science and Nutrition, 2017

ChefPax provides this section for culinary and educational purposes only. It is not medical advice.

Explore More

More Basil Recipes →Buy Basil Tray →Shop All Trays →Delivery in Downtown Austin
Helpful guides

All RecipesShop Microgreens