Looking for a delicious and easy recipe to add a touch of freshness to your dinner table? Look no further than our delightful recipe for Pasta with Pesto. This classic dish brings together the vibrant flavors of basil, garlic, Parmesan, and pine nuts in a delightful green sauce that will take your taste buds on a flavorful journey. Perfect for a cozy night in or a weekend gathering with loved ones, this dish is sure to become a family favorite. Let’s dive into the simple steps to create this mouthwatering Pasta with Pesto.
**Pasta with Pesto**
**Ingredients:**
– 1 pound of pasta (spaghetti or any variety of your choice)
– 2 cups of fresh basil leaves
– 3 cloves of garlic
– 1/2 cup of pine nuts
– 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/2 cup of extra virgin olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: cherry tomatoes and fresh basil leaves for garnish
**Instructions:**
1. **Prepare the Pesto Sauce:** In a food processor, combine the fresh basil leaves, garlic cloves, pine nuts, and grated Parmesan cheese. Pulse the ingredients until well combined.
2. **Drizzle in the Olive Oil:** While the food processor is running, slowly drizzle in the extra virgin olive oil until the mixture comes together in a smooth and creamy sauce. Add more olive oil if needed to achieve your desired consistency.
3. **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. Reserve a cup of pasta water before draining the pasta.
4. **Mix the Pesto with the Pasta:** In a large pan, toss the cooked pasta with the freshly made pesto sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to loosen it up and help it coat the pasta evenly.
5. **Season to Taste:** Season the Pasta with Pesto with salt and pepper to taste. Adjust the seasoning as needed, keeping in mind that the Parmesan cheese in the pesto is already salty.
6. **Garnish and Serve:** For a pop of color and flavor, garnish the Pasta with Pesto with halved cherry tomatoes and fresh basil leaves. Serve the dish hot and enjoy it with a side salad or a glass of your favorite wine.
7. **Enjoy:** Dive into your homemade Pasta with Pesto and savor each bite of the aromatic basil, nutty pine nuts, and sharp Parmesan cheese. The vibrant flavors of this dish will transport you to the sunny Mediterranean coast with every mouthful.
**Meal Ideas:**
– Pair this Pasta with Pesto with a simple Caprese salad for a complete Italian-inspired meal.
– Serve the dish alongside grilled chicken or shrimp for added protein.
– Enjoy leftovers cold as a pasta salad for a refreshing lunch option.
Unleash your inner chef and prepare this delightful Pasta with Pesto to impress your family and friends with your culinary skills. With simple ingredients and easy steps, this recipe is perfect for both beginner and seasoned cooks alike. Bon appétit!
