Pesto Pasta
Pesto Pasta is a delightful and vibrant dish that celebrates the fresh flavors of basil, garlic, and parmesan cheese. This simple yet elegant pasta dish is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion. The pesto sauce is the star of the show, providing a burst of herbaceous flavor that coats each strand of pasta beautifully. Whether you pair it with grilled meats or vegetables, or serve it as a standalone meal, Pesto Pasta is sure to be a hit. This dish is not only delicious but also versatile, making it a great addition to any cook's repertoire.
▪️ 2 cups fresh basil leaves
▪️ ½ cup grated parmesan cheese
▪️ ½ cup extra-virgin olive oil
▪️ ⅓ cup pine nuts
▪️ 3 cloves garlic, minced
▪️ Salt and pepper to taste
▪️ Optional: Lemon juice for brightness
Step 2: In a food processor, combine the basil leaves, grated parmesan cheese, pine nuts, and minced garlic. Pulse until finely chopped.
Step 3: With the food processor running, slowly add the extra-virgin olive oil in a steady stream until the mixture is smooth and creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 4: If desired, add a splash of lemon juice to the pesto for added brightness and flavor.
Step 5: Toss the cooked pasta with the prepared pesto sauce until evenly coated. Serve immediately, garnished with extra grated parmesan cheese and fresh basil leaves if desired.
▪️ Traditional pesto is made using a mortar and pestle, though modern recipes often use a food processor for convenience.
▪️ Pine nuts used in pesto are actually seeds from certain pine trees and have a rich, buttery texture.
▪️ Roasted Vegetables: The earthy flavors of roasted vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, and eggplant complement the bright and vibrant pesto sauce.
▪️ Crisp White Wine: A glass of chilled Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio enhances the freshness of Pesto Pasta and provides a delightful contrast to its rich, nutty flavors.
Pesto Pasta Ingredients
▪️ 12 oz (340g) spaghetti or your favorite pasta▪️ 2 cups fresh basil leaves
▪️ ½ cup grated parmesan cheese
▪️ ½ cup extra-virgin olive oil
▪️ ⅓ cup pine nuts
▪️ 3 cloves garlic, minced
▪️ Salt and pepper to taste
▪️ Optional: Lemon juice for brightness
How to make Pesto Pasta
Step 1: Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.Step 2: In a food processor, combine the basil leaves, grated parmesan cheese, pine nuts, and minced garlic. Pulse until finely chopped.
Step 3: With the food processor running, slowly add the extra-virgin olive oil in a steady stream until the mixture is smooth and creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 4: If desired, add a splash of lemon juice to the pesto for added brightness and flavor.
Step 5: Toss the cooked pasta with the prepared pesto sauce until evenly coated. Serve immediately, garnished with extra grated parmesan cheese and fresh basil leaves if desired.
Overview of Pesto Pasta
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Preparation Time | 10 minutes |
| Cooking Time | 10-12 minutes |
| Servings | 4 |
| Nutritional Information | Protein: 12g, Carbohydrates: 40g, Fats: 20g |
| Energy | 1265 kJ (300 cal) |
| Main Ingredients | Spaghetti, basil, parmesan cheese, olive oil, pine nuts, garlic |
| Sauce Ingredients | Basil, parmesan cheese, olive oil, pine nuts, garlic |
| Cooking Method | Boiling, blending |
| Meal Categories | Dinner, Comfort Food, Family Meals |
| Key Flavors | Herbaceous, cheesy, nutty |
| Texture | Creamy, smooth |
| Dietary Information | Vegetarian |
| Allergen Information | Contains nuts (pine nuts), dairy (parmesan cheese) |
| Storage Tips | Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days |
| Serving Suggestions | Serve with extra parmesan cheese, fresh basil leaves, and a side of grilled vegetables or meats |
Fun Facts about Pesto Pasta
▪️ Pesto originates from Genoa, Italy, and "pesto" comes from the Italian word "pestare," meaning to crush or pound.▪️ Traditional pesto is made using a mortar and pestle, though modern recipes often use a food processor for convenience.
▪️ Pine nuts used in pesto are actually seeds from certain pine trees and have a rich, buttery texture.
Pesto Pasta Pairing Suggestions
▪️ Grilled Chicken: The smokiness of grilled chicken pairs beautifully with the fresh, herbaceous flavor of Pesto Pasta, creating a balanced and satisfying meal.▪️ Roasted Vegetables: The earthy flavors of roasted vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, and eggplant complement the bright and vibrant pesto sauce.
▪️ Crisp White Wine: A glass of chilled Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio enhances the freshness of Pesto Pasta and provides a delightful contrast to its rich, nutty flavors.
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