Asian Sesame Basil Pesto with Noodles

Ingredients

• 1/4 cup Sesame seeds (lightly toasted)
• 2 cloves Garlic cloves (peeled)
• 1 cup Thai basil leaves (packed, fresh)
• 3 stalks Green onions (white and green parts, roughly chopped)
• 1/3 cup Parmesan cheese (freshly grated)
• 1/4 cup Olive oil (extra‑virgin)
• 1 tablespoon Sesame oil (toasted variety)
• 1 tablespoon Lemon juice (or yuzu juice if available)
• 1/2 teaspoon Salt
• 1/4 teaspoon White pepper
• 12 ounces Dry noodles (spaghetti, linguine, or udon) (cooked according to package, drained)
• 1 tablespoon Extra toasted sesame seeds (for garnish)

Instructions

1. Toast sesame seeds

   Heat a dry skillet over medium heat. Add the sesame seeds and stir constantly until they turn golden and fragrant, about 3–5 minutes. Transfer to a plate to cool.

   Time: PT5M

2. Prep aromatics and herbs

   While the seeds toast, peel and mince the garlic, chop the green onions (both white and green parts), and measure out the olive oil, sesame oil, lemon juice, salt, and white pepper.

   Time: PT5M

3. Blend the pesto

   In the food processor, combine the toasted sesame seeds, minced garlic, Thai basil leaves, chopped green onions, grated Parmesan, olive oil, sesame oil, lemon (or yuzu) juice, salt, and white pepper. Pulse until the mixture is smooth but still slightly textured, about 30 seconds to 1 minute.

   Time: PT2M

4. Cook the noodles

   Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the dry noodles and cook according to package directions until al dente (usually 8–10 minutes). Reserve 1/4 cup of the hot pasta water, then drain the noodles in a colander.

   Time: PT10M

   Temperature: boiling

5. Toss noodles with pesto

   Return the drained noodles to the large mixing bowl. Add the freshly made pesto and a little of the reserved pasta water (start with 2 Tbsp). Toss gently until every strand is evenly coated. Sprinkle the extra toasted sesame seeds on top.

   Time: PT5M

6. Serve

   Plate the pesto‑tossed noodles immediately, garnish with the remaining toasted sesame seeds, and enjoy while warm.

   Time: PT0M

Nutrition Facts

Calories

620

Protein

15 g

Carbohydrates

70 g

Fat

30 g

Fiber

4 g