Pasta With Pesto Ideas

Looking for a delicious and versatile dish to add to your recipe repertoire? Look no further than this flavorful Pasta With Pesto Ideas recipe. Packed with the vibrant flavors of homemade pesto and customizable with a variety of fresh ingredients, this pasta dish is sure to become a favorite in your household. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply craving a cozy homemade meal, this recipe is perfect for any occasion.

**Pasta With Pesto Ideas**

**Ingredients:**

– 12 oz. of your favorite pasta (such as linguine or penne)
– 2 cups fresh basil leaves, packed
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/2 cup pine nuts
– 3 garlic cloves
– 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
– Juice of 1 lemon
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Optional toppings: cherry tomatoes, grilled chicken, roasted vegetables

**Instructions:**

1. **Prepare the Pesto:** In a food processor, combine the basil leaves, Parmesan cheese, pine nuts, garlic cloves, olive oil, and lemon juice. Pulse until the ingredients are well combined and form a smooth paste. Season with salt and pepper to taste. If the pesto is too thick, you can add a little more olive oil until you reach your desired consistency.

2. **Cook the Pasta:** Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Before draining the pasta, reserve about 1/2 cup of the cooking water.

3. **Combine the Pasta and Pesto:** In a large skillet, heat a drizzle of olive oil over medium heat. Add the cooked pasta and the pesto sauce. Toss the pasta and pesto together, adding a splash of the reserved cooking water if needed to loosen the sauce and help it coat the pasta evenly.

4. **Customize Your Dish:** This is where you can get creative! Consider adding cherry tomatoes for a burst of freshness, grilled chicken for added protein, or roasted vegetables for a hearty touch. Simply toss in your desired toppings and stir until everything is well combined and heated through.

5. **Serve and Enjoy:** Once everything is mixed together and heated through, your Pasta With Pesto Ideas is ready to be served. Divide the pasta among plates and finish with an extra sprinkle of Parmesan cheese and a drizzle of olive oil, if desired. Pair it with a side salad or some crusty bread for a satisfying meal.

6. **Storage Tip:** If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm the pasta in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water to help revive the sauce.

7. **Make It Ahead:** You can prepare the pesto ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to a week or freeze it for longer periods. This way, you can whip up a quick and delicious pasta dish whenever the craving strikes.

Get ready to impress your family and guests with this delectable Pasta With Pesto Ideas recipe. With its vibrant flavors and endless customizable options, it’s a versatile dish that you’ll want to make again and again. Whether you enjoy it as a simple weeknight dinner or as part of a special gathering, this pasta dish is sure to delight your taste buds and bring a touch of homemade goodness to your table.