Pesto Pasta is a classic Italian dish that combines the fresh flavors of basil, garlic, pine nuts, Parmesan cheese, and olive oil into a vibrant green sauce. This easy and delicious recipe is perfect for a quick dinner or a special occasion, capturing the essence of Italian cuisine.
“Good food is the foundation of genuine happiness.” – Auguste Escoffier
Recipe Description
Pesto, originating from Genoa in the Liguria region of Italy, is a sauce that has been enjoyed for centuries. The word “pesto” comes from the Italian word “pestare,” meaning to pound or crush, referring to the original method of making pesto using a mortar and pestle. Traditionally, pesto sauce is made with fresh basil leaves, garlic, pine nuts, Parmesan cheese, and extra virgin olive oil. This aromatic sauce is then tossed with pasta to create a simple yet flavorful dish. Over the years, pesto has become a beloved sauce worldwide, appreciated for its vibrant color and fresh taste.
Ingredients
Pesto Sauce
- 2 cups fresh basil leaves
- 2 cloves garlic
- 1/4 cup pine nuts
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Pasta
- 400 grams (14 oz) spaghetti or linguine
- Salt for boiling water
Instructions
Prepare the Pesto Sauce
- Blend Ingredients: In a food processor, combine the basil leaves, garlic, and pine nuts. Pulse until finely chopped.
- Add Cheese and Oil: Add the grated Parmesan cheese and blend. With the processor running, slowly pour in the olive oil until the mixture is smooth and emulsified. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cook the Pasta
- Boil Pasta: In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water and drain the rest.
Combine and Serve
- Toss with Pesto: Return the drained pasta to the pot. Add the pesto sauce and a little of the reserved pasta water. Toss to combine, adding more pasta water as needed to achieve the desired consistency.
- Serve: Serve immediately, garnished with extra Parmesan cheese and a drizzle of olive oil if desired.
Conclusion
Enjoy your homemade Pesto Pasta, a delightful and fresh dish that brings the flavors of Italy to your table. Perfect for any occasion, this recipe is sure to impress family and friends.
Additional Notes
- Storage: Leftover pesto can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. The pasta itself is best enjoyed fresh.
- Variations: Experiment with different nuts such as walnuts or almonds, or add a squeeze of lemon juice for a citrusy twist.
