Classic Basil Pesto Pasta Recipe is a timeless Italian classic that never gets old. It’s the perfect offering for a casual family dinner, a potluck, or any kind of gathering really. This delicious noodley wonder is enriched with the flavorful union of basil, garlic, pine nuts, and Parmesan cheese. The experience of indulging in a plate of this dish is like a grand symphony playing in your mouth – bringing the taste of Italy right into the comfort of your own home. We have a feeling you’re going to love it.
With this Classic Basil Pesto Pasta Recipe, you’re not just making pasta, you’re creating a moment, a memory, a tradition. It’s the kind of meal that comfortingly whispers stories of yesteryears into your ears as you relish its delightful taste. All right, enough with the small talk. Let’s get cooking!
– Prep Time: 10 minutes
– Cook Time: 15 minutes
– Total Time: 25 minutes
– Servings: 4
– Yield: 4 servings
Now that you know what a flavorful journey you’re about to embark on, it’s time to delve into the recipe details.
Ingredients & Equipment You’ll Need
– 2 cups fresh basil leaves
– 2 cloves garlic
– �� cup pine nuts
– 2/3 cup extra-virgin olive oil
– Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
– �� cup freshly grated Pecorino cheese
– 1 pound spaghetti
Equipment:
– Food processor
– Large pot
The basil leaves are the star of the show here, bringing the fresh herbal notes. Garlic and pine nuts provide the undeniable layers of flavor that pesto sauce is known for. The extra-virgin olive oil helps to marry all of the flavors together, while the salt and pepper season the dish perfectly. Substitutions can be made if necessary – walnuts or almonds can replace pine nuts and Parmesan can be used instead of Pecorino.
How To Make Classic Basil Pesto Pasta Recipe
1. Start off by making the pesto.
2. Put basil leaves, pine nuts, garlic, salt, and pepper into the food processor.
3. Add half of the olive oil and process until smooth, then add the remaining oil and cheese. Process again until well combined. Set the pesto aside.
4. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente.
5. Drain the pasta, reserving about 1 cup of the pasta water.
6. Add the pesto to the pasta and toss well to coat evenly. If the pasta seems dry, add some of the reserved pasta water.
Tips For The Best Results
– Avoid overcooking the pasta; it must be al dente.
– Fresh ingredients are the key to a great Pesto Pasta.
Storage Tips
– Store the leftover pasta in an airtight container. It will keep in the fridge for up to 2 days.
– Store extra pesto in a jar with a thin layer of olive oil on top. It will keep in the fridge for up to 1 week.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I make pesto ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can make pesto a few days in advance. Just make sure you cover it with a thin layer of olive oil and store it in the fridge.
Q: Can I use dried basil instead of fresh basil?
A: For the best pesto, we recommend using fresh basil. Dried basil can alter the flavor of the sauce.
Q: What can I use instead of pine nuts?
A: If you don���t have pine nuts, you can substitute them with walnuts or even almonds.
Q: How can I make my pesto creamier?
A: You can add more olive oil or a bit of the pasta water you’ve reserved.
Q: Can I freeze the pesto?
A: Yes, you can freeze the pesto in small portions for future cooking adventures.
Nutritional Facts of Classic Basil Pesto Pasta Recipe
Calories: 450 kcal, Carbohydrates: 30g, Protein: 15g, Fat: 20g, Saturated Fat: 5g, Cholesterol: 30mg, Sodium: 250mg, Fiber: 3g, Sugar: 3g
In conclusion, one of the finest things about the Classic Basil Pesto Pasta Recipe is its versatility. It can easily be tailored to your flavor preferences. You can top it off with a sprinkle of more grated cheese, add some grilled chicken, or sprinkle some red chili flakes for a little kick. Enjoy it with a side of garlic bread or a simple salad, and you’ve got a scrumptious meal. The world is your oyster when it comes to the possibilities with this delightful pasta dish!
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