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Pesto Pasta Recipe

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Pesto pasta is a simple, flavorful, and vibrant dish that combines the fresh, aromatic flavors of basil pesto with tender pasta. It’s a quick and satisfying meal, perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients

  1. 12 oz pasta (spaghetti, penne, fusilli, or your choice)
    1/2 cup homemade or store-bought pesto sauce
    1/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
    2 tablespoons pine nuts (optional, for garnish)
    Fresh basil leaves, for garnish
    Salt and pepper, to taste
    For the pesto sauce:
    2 cups fresh basil leaves, packed
    1/4 cup pine nuts (or walnuts for variation)
    2 cloves garlic, minced
    1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
    1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
    Salt and pepper, to taste
    Juice of 1/2 lemon (optional, for a citrusy touch)

Instructions

Make the pesto sauce: In a food processor or blender, combine fresh basil, pine nuts, garlic, and Parmesan cheese. Pulse a few times. While blending, slowly stream in olive oil until smooth. Season with salt, pepper, and lemon juice to taste.

  1. Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil, add pasta, and cook until al dente. Drain, reserving 1/2 cup pasta water.
  2. Combine pasta and pesto: In a bowl or the pasta pot, toss the drained pasta with pesto sauce. Add a bit of reserved pasta water for a creamy consistency if needed.
  3. Serve: Plate the pasta, sprinkle with Parmesan, garnish with pine nuts and basil, and add salt/pepper to taste.

Notes

  • Add protein: Grilled chicken, shrimp, or roasted veggies can be added to the dish.
  • Creamy pesto: Add a splash of cream or Greek yogurt for a richer texture.
  • Vegan version: Use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan for a dairy-free option.
  • Spicy pesto: Add red pepper flakes for extra heat.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://thefamilycooking.com/pesto-pasta-recipe/