Description
A nostalgic Pesto Pasta dish that combines fresh basil, garlic, and creamy Parmesan cheese for a rich and flavorful experience.
Ingredients
- Fresh Basil (2 cups)
- Pine Nuts (1/2 cup)
- Garlic (2-3 cloves)
- Parmesan Cheese (1/2 cup)
- Olive Oil (1/2 cup)
- Salt and Pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the Ingredients: Begin by washing and drying your basil leaves. Toast the pine nuts in a dry skillet over medium heat until golden and fragrant.
- Blend the Pesto: In a food processor, combine basil, toasted pine nuts, and garlic. Pulse until finely chopped. Gradually add olive oil until smooth.
- Mix in Cheese: Add grated Parmesan cheese and season with salt and pepper. Pulse a few more times to create a creamy sauce.
- Cook the Pasta: In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook your choice of pasta (linguine, spaghetti, or penne) until al dente.
- Combine and Serve: Drain the pasta, reserving a cup of pasta water. Return the pasta to the pot, add the pesto, and toss with reserved pasta water to desired creaminess.
- Final Touches: Garnish with extra Parmesan and a sprinkle of fresh basil. Enjoy!
Notes
Ensure to taste the pasta before the recommended cooking time for perfect al dente texture. Toasting pine nuts is key to enhancing flavor.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 400
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 350mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 43g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
Keywords: pasta, pesto, Italian, vegetarian, comfort food