Easy Pesto Pasta
Indulge in our Pesto Pasta the next time you’re craving a flavorful and aromatic dish. This recipe is perfect for anyone who wants to create a beautiful meal with minimal effort, whether it’s for a weekday supper or a quick, last-minute lunch. The rich blend of olive oil, fragrant basil, and creamy Parmigiano Reggiano is sure to satisfy your taste buds. Plus, with just a few simple ingredients, this delicious meal can be whipped up in no time.
What to Serve Alongside Pesto Pasta?
Take your Pesto Pasta to the next level by pairing it with complementary sides that enhance its flavors and provide balance. Here are a few suggestions to round out your meal:
- Fresh Green Salad: A light green salad with a mild vinaigrette helps balance the richness of the pesto. The crispness of the greens provides a refreshing contrast, making each bite feel lighter and more vibrant.
- Crispy Garlic Bread: For garlic lovers, crispy garlic bread is the ideal side. It can be used to soak up any extra pesto sauce, adding even more flavor to your meal.
- Roasted Vegetables: Asparagus, cherry tomatoes, and roasted zucchini bring both color and texture to your plate. The slight char from roasting enhances the natural sweetness of the vegetables, perfectly complementing the savory pesto.
- Grilled Protein: For a heartier dinner, add some grilled protein like shrimp, chicken, or salmon. The smoky, grilled flavors pair beautifully with the fresh basil and olive oil in the pesto, making the dish more substantial without overpowering the delicate flavors.
The Argument in Favor of Pesto Pasta
One of the best aspects of pesto pasta is its adaptability. You can easily tweak the recipe to suit your tastes or dietary preferences. Want a creamier texture? Add a touch of fresh ricotta or a splash of heavy cream. Looking to boost your protein intake? Toss in some grilled chicken, shrimp, or even chickpeas for a heartier version. The possibilities are endless, and the results are always delicious, consistently satisfying your taste buds.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use store-bought pesto instead of making it fresh?
Absolutely! While fresh pesto delivers the best flavor, store-bought pesto is a convenient option when you’re short on time. Just be sure to choose a high-quality brand with natural ingredients. - Can I make the pesto ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the pesto in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To preserve its vibrant green color, drizzle a thin layer of olive oil on top before sealing the container. - What other types of pasta work well with pesto?
Fettuccine is a great choice, but you can use any pasta you like. Spaghetti, penne, and linguine all work wonderfully with pesto sauce. For a fun twist, try short pasta like fusilli or farfalle, which catch the sauce in their grooves for extra flavor.
In Conclusion
This simple yet flavorful Pesto Pasta will make you feel like a gourmet chef without the hassle. The bright, fresh basil combined with creamy Parmigiano Reggiano creates a sauce that complements the pasta perfectly. Whether you’re making it for yourself or serving it to guests, this dish is sure to impress.
Easy Pesto pasta
Equipment
- 1 cooking pan
Ingredients
- ½ cup extra virgin olive oil
- 8 oz fettuccine or pasta of your choice
- 4 tablespoons shredded Parmigiano Reggiano
- 4 teaspoons pine nuts
- 1 large bunch fresh basil about 2 oz
- 1 garlic clove
- Salt to taste
Instructions
- Gather all the ingredients.
- Toast the Pine Nuts: In a cooking pan, toast the pine nuts for 3-5 minutes over medium heat, or until they become fragrant.
- Make the Pesto: In a blender or food processor, combine extra virgin olive oil and garlic, and blend for 10 seconds. Then add the roasted pine nuts, and blend for another 20 seconds. Add the fresh basil, shredded Parmigiano Reggiano, and salt, and blend for another 30 seconds. If the pesto is too thick, add some extra olive oil to achieve the desired consistency.
- Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the fettuccine (or your preferred pasta) according to the package instructions until al dente.
- Mix the pasta: On low heat in the cooking pan, toss the cooked pasta with the fresh pesto until evenly coated. Add more pasta water if needed to loosen the sauce.
- Serving: Serve immediately with an extra sprinkle of Parmigiano Reggiano and basil leaves for garnish.
Video
Notes
- Use Fresh Basil: Fresh basil is key to making an aromatic and flavorful pesto. Make sure to use bright green leaves and avoid any that are bruised or wilted for the best results.
- Toast the Pine Nuts: Lightly toasting the pine nuts before blending them into the pesto can bring out their natural nuttiness, adding depth to the sauce.
- Reserve Pasta Water: Don’t forget to save some of the pasta cooking water before draining it. This starchy water helps loosen the pesto and coat the pasta evenly, creating a silky, smooth sauce.
- Serve Immediately: Pesto pasta is best enjoyed fresh. As the sauce sits, it can lose some of its vibrancy. If you’re prepping in advance, store the pesto separately and toss it with the pasta just before serving.