Description
Pesto pasta is a delightful Italian dish that brings together the vibrant flavors of fresh basil, garlic, and creamy Parmesan cheese in a luscious green sauce. Perfect for busy weeknights or special gatherings, this quick and easy recipe can be customized with your favorite proteins or vegetables for a meal that pleases everyone at the table. Get ready to twirl your pasta in this aromatic sauce and savor every bite.
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 cups fresh basil leaves
- 3 garlic cloves
- 1/3 cup pine nuts (toasted)
- 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 8 oz pasta of choice (spaghetti, fusilli, etc.)
- Salt to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the Pasta: Boil salted water in a large pot and cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Make the Pesto: In a food processor, combine basil, garlic, pine nuts, and Parmesan cheese. Pulse until finely chopped.
- Add Olive Oil: With the processor running, slowly drizzle in olive oil until well blended into a smooth paste. Season with salt to taste.
- Combine: Mix the drained pasta with the pesto until evenly coated.
- Serve: Plate the pesto pasta and garnish with additional Parmesan and fresh basil leaves before enjoying.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 460
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 225mg
- Fat: 34g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 29g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 10g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
Keywords: - Substitute pine nuts with walnuts or almonds for different flavors. - Enhance nutrition by adding grilled chicken or roasted vegetables. - Reserve some pasta water to adjust the consistency of the sauce if needed.