Pasta in pesto sauce is a classic Italian dish that blends the freshness of basil with the richness of olive oil and the creaminess of Parmesan. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or craving something comforting and quick, this dish is guaranteed to impress. With minimal ingredients and a few simple steps, you’ll have a vibrant and delicious meal in no time.
Ingredients:
For the pesto sauce:
- 2 cups fresh basil leaves (packed)
- 1/4 cup pine nuts (you can substitute with walnuts or almonds)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2-3 garlic cloves
- 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- A squeeze of lemon juice (optional, for added freshness)
For the pasta:
- 250g pasta (spaghetti, penne, fusilli, or your choice)
- Salt, for boiling water
- Fresh basil leaves (optional, for garnish)
- Extra Parmesan cheese (optional, for serving)
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Pesto Sauce:
- Start by placing the fresh basil leaves, pine nuts, Parmesan, and garlic into a food processor or blender. Blend until everything is finely chopped and combined.
- With the processor running, slowly drizzle in the olive oil. Blend until the sauce is smooth and creamy.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste, and if you want an extra zing, add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice. Set the pesto aside while you cook the pasta.
2. Cook the Pasta:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions, usually around 8-10 minutes, or until the pasta is al dente.
- Once the pasta is cooked, reserve about a cup of pasta water and then drain the rest.
3. Combine Pasta with Pesto Sauce:
- In a large mixing bowl, toss the hot pasta with the pesto sauce. If the sauce feels too thick, add a little bit of the reserved pasta water, a tablespoon at a time, until you achieve the desired consistency.
- Toss everything together so the pesto coats the pasta evenly.
4. Serve and Garnish:
- Plate your pasta and garnish with extra fresh basil leaves and a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese.
- Serve immediately, and enjoy!
Tips for the Best Pasta in Pesto Sauce:
- Freshness is key: Fresh basil makes all the difference in the flavor of your pesto. For the best results, use young, tender basil leaves.
- Nut substitutes: Pine nuts are traditional, but you can also use walnuts, almonds, or cashews if pine nuts are unavailable or if you prefer a different taste.
- Make it creamy: For a richer pesto, try adding a tablespoon of cream cheese or mascarpone to the pesto mix for a smoother texture.
- Vegan option: For a dairy-free version, skip the Parmesan and use nutritional yeast to get that cheesy flavor.
Conclusion:
Pasta in pesto sauce is a light yet satisfying meal that brings the vibrant flavors of Italy right to your plate. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a dish to impress guests, this recipe is a winner every time. Try it out and enjoy the freshness and boldness of the pesto sauce paired with your favorite pasta!
