If you’re looking for a quick and easy dinner recipe that’s packed with flavor, look no further than Pesto Pasta! This classic Italian dish is a favorite for many, and it’s easy to see why. The combination of fresh basil, parmesan cheese, and garlic creates a delicious, aromatic sauce that pairs perfectly with pasta. Plus, it only takes 20 minutes to make!
Ingredients
To make Pesto Pasta for 4 servings, you’ll need:
- 500g pasta
- 2 cups fresh basil leaves
- 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup olive oil
- 1/4 cup pine nuts
- 4 garlic cloves
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
Instructions
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Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until it’s al dente.
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While the pasta is cooking, make the pesto sauce. Add the basil, parmesan cheese, pine nuts, garlic, salt, and black pepper to a food processor. Pulse until everything is finely chopped.
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Slowly add the olive oil while continuing to pulse until a smooth pesto sauce forms.
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Once the pasta is cooked, drain it and return it to the pot. Add the pesto sauce and stir until the pasta is coated.
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Serve hot and enjoy!
That’s it! Your delicious Pesto Pasta is ready to be enjoyed.
Variations
If you have any dietary restrictions or simply want to switch things up a bit, there are many variations you can make to this recipe. Here are a few ideas:
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Vegetarian/Vegan: To make this recipe vegetarian or vegan, simply omit the parmesan cheese or use a vegan parmesan substitute. You can also use a gluten-free pasta if you’re gluten intolerant.
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Add Vegetables: You can add some vegetables like cherry tomatoes, zucchini, or mushrooms while making the pesto sauce to make it more nutritious and flavorful.
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Protein: Add some grilled chicken or shrimp to add some protein to the dish.
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Different Pasta Shapes: You can use different pasta shapes like fusilli, penne, or spaghetti to make it more interesting.
Conclusion
Pesto Pasta is a simple and delicious dish that’s perfect for a quick dinner. With just a few ingredients and a little bit of time, you can create a flavorful and satisfying meal that everyone will love. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or just for yourself, this recipe is sure to become a favorite!
FAQ
What type of pasta should I use for Pesto Pasta?
You can use any type of pasta, but we recommend using short pasta such as fusilli, penne, or farfalle to hold the pesto sauce better.
Can I use store-bought pesto instead of homemade pesto?
Yes, you can use store-bought pesto instead of homemade pesto. However, homemade pesto will give a fresher and more authentic taste to the dish.
Can I make Pesto Pasta in advance?
Yes, you can make Pesto Pasta in advance, but we recommend making it fresh for best taste and texture. If you need to make it in advance, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
Can I add vegetables to Pesto Pasta?
Yes, you can add vegetables such as cherry tomatoes, roasted peppers, or zucchini to Pesto Pasta. It will add more flavor and nutrition to the dish.
Can I use a different type of cheese instead of Parmesan cheese?
Yes, you can use a different type of hard cheese such as Pecorino Romano or Grana Padano instead of Parmesan cheese. However, Parmesan cheese is the most traditional and recommended cheese for Pesto Pasta.
Can I make Pesto Pasta without nuts?
Yes, you can make Pesto Pasta without nuts by omitting the nuts or substituting them with seeds such as sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds. However, nuts add a nutty flavor and texture to the dish.
Can I freeze Pesto Pasta?
No, we do not recommend freezing Pesto Pasta because the texture and flavor will change after thawing. It is best to enjoy it fresh or store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
Can I use a blender instead of a food processor to make pesto?
Yes, you can use a blender instead of a food processor to make pesto. However, a food processor will give a better texture and consistency to the pesto.
Can I use olive oil instead of extra-virgin olive oil?
Yes, you can use olive oil instead of extra-virgin olive oil. However, extra-virgin olive oil will give a better flavor and aroma to the dish.
Can I serve Pesto Pasta cold?
Yes, you can serve Pesto Pasta cold as a pasta salad or a cold dish. It is a great option for a summer meal or a picnic.
