Description
A delightful and versatile pasta dish enhanced with fresh basil pesto, perfect for family gatherings or a cozy night in.
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 cups fresh basil leaves
- 1/2 cup pine nuts or walnuts
- 2–3 cloves garlic
- 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan or Pecorino cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the Ingredients: Wash the basil leaves thoroughly and peel the garlic cloves. If using nuts, toast them lightly in a skillet until golden brown.
- Blend the Sauce: In a food processor, combine the basil, nuts, garlic, and cheese. Pulse until finely chopped, then gradually pour in the olive oil while blending until you reach your desired consistency.
- Season to Taste: Taste the pesto and add salt and pepper as desired. Optional: add crushed red pepper flakes or lemon juice for extra flavor.
- Cook the Pasta: Boil pasta according to package directions and reserve a cup of pasta water before draining.
- Combine: Mix cooked pasta with pesto in a large bowl; incorporate reserved pasta water as needed for a silky sauce.
- Garnish and Serve: Finish with extra cheese, fresh herbs, or toasted nuts, and a drizzle of olive oil.
Notes
Feel free to customize the pesto with seasonal ingredients or dietary preferences.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 18g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 10g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
Keywords: pasta, pesto, basil, family recipe, vegetarian, Italian cuisine