Description
Pesto Ramen is a quick and easy fusion dish that combines vibrant basil pesto with comforting ramen noodles and vegetable broth. Ready in under 20 minutes, this vegetarian-friendly recipe offers fresh herbaceous flavors balanced with savory richness, perfect for a fast weeknight meal or an impressive dish to share.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 200g fresh or instant ramen noodles
- 2–3 tablespoons basil pesto (store-bought or homemade)
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish
- Parmesan cheese, grated (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Broth: Start by warming the vegetable broth in a saucepan over medium heat. Add a splash of olive oil and minced garlic, sautéing for 1-2 minutes until fragrant to infuse the broth with aromatic flavor.
- Cook the Ramen Noodles: Meanwhile, cook the ramen noodles according to the package instructions, usually around 3-4 minutes, until tender but still springy. Drain and set aside.
- Add the Pesto and Tomatoes: Stir in 2-3 tablespoons of basil pesto directly into the hot broth, mixing until smooth and creamy. Toss in halved cherry tomatoes and let them warm through without losing their bright color and texture.
- Combine and Serve: Place the cooked ramen noodles into bowls, ladle the pesto broth over them, and garnish generously with fresh basil leaves and optional Parmesan. Serve immediately to enjoy the warm, vibrant flavors.
Notes
- Use fresh pesto for best flavor and vibrant color; store-bought works in a pinch.
- Do not overcook the noodles to maintain a pleasant al dente texture.
- A squeeze of fresh lemon juice before serving can enhance brightness.
- Customize the broth with a splash of soy sauce or miso paste for added umami.
- If making pesto from scratch, lightly toast pine nuts or walnuts for deeper flavor and texture.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Fusion (Italian-Japanese)
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl (about 1/2 recipe)
- Calories: 400 kcal
- Sugar: 4 g
- Sodium: 650 mg
- Fat: 18 g
- Saturated Fat: 3 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 13 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 45 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 12 g
- Cholesterol: 5 mg