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Pesto Ramen

Pesto Ramen

Pesto Ramen is a flavorful fusion dish that combines creamy, aromatic basil pesto with chewy ramen noodles for a quick, fresh, and comforting meal. Ready in under 30 minutes, it offers a perfect balance of nutty, herbal, and savory flavors, making it ideal for busy weeknights or gatherings. Easily customizable with optional veggies, proteins, and vegan substitutions, this vibrant recipe brings a unique twist to traditional ramen.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 200g ramen noodles
  • 1 cup fresh basil leaves
  • 1/4 cup pine nuts, toasted
  • 1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 garlic cloves
  • 3 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

Optional Ingredients

  • Cherry tomatoes, halved
  • Fresh spinach leaves
  • Grilled chicken, tofu or soft-boiled egg (for protein boost)
  • Chili flakes or sriracha (for a spicy kick)
  • Walnuts or almonds (as nut alternatives)
  • Parsley or cilantro (as herb mix-up)

Instructions

  1. Cook the ramen noodles: Bring a pot of salted water to a boil, then add the ramen noodles and cook according to package instructions, usually about 3-4 minutes. Drain once tender but still slightly firm and set aside.
  2. Prepare the pesto sauce: In a food processor or blender, combine fresh basil, toasted pine nuts, grated Parmesan cheese, garlic cloves, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. While blending, slowly drizzle in olive oil until the mixture reaches a creamy, spreadable consistency.
  3. Toss noodles and pesto: Return the cooked noodles to the pot or a large mixing bowl. Add generous spoonfuls of pesto and toss gently to coat every noodle strand evenly with the vibrant green sauce.
  4. Add optional toppings: Enhance your pesto ramen by adding cherry tomatoes, fresh spinach, grilled chicken, tofu, or a soft-boiled egg. Garnish with extra Parmesan cheese or toasted pine nuts for added crunch and flavor.

Notes

  • Use fresh basil for the best flavor and color in your pesto.
  • Do not overcook the noodles; keep them al dente for a pleasant chew and better sauce adherence.
  • Lightly toast pine nuts or walnuts to intensify their flavor and add a toasty aroma.
  • Add olive oil gradually when blending pesto to control sauce thickness.
  • Season pesto gradually, tasting as you go to avoid over-salting especially with Parmesan added.

Nutrition

Keywords: Pesto Ramen, basil pesto, ramen noodles, quick dinner, fusion recipe, easy pesto recipe, vegetarian ramen, gluten-free ramen