Vibrant Basil Pesto Pasta: a Weeknight Wonder
Table of Contents
Recipe Introduction
Quick Hook
Ever stared blankly into the fridge at 6 PM? You know the feeling. My pesto pasta recipe is the answer to those weeknight woes! It is seriously packed with fresh, herby goodness.
Brief Overview
Pesto pasta hails from the liguria region of italy. it's a celebration of fresh basil and simple ingredients. this easy pasta for two recipe is ready in under 30 minutes.
You will have about 4 servings with my recipe.
Main Benefits
Hello! Basil is good for you! This dish offers some nutrients. Looking for healthy supper meals ? Or a quick and delish pesto recipe dinner ? Then look no further! What makes this recipe special is the freshness, it takes you away to Italy!
Pesto Pasta, Last Minute Recipes Dinner
Honestly, sometimes the best meals are the ones that come together in a flash. think of my pesto pasta recipe as your culinary superhero.
It appears at the last minute! you can conquer that "what's for dinner?" question.
Pesto And Chicken Pasta? Yes, Please!
Listen, pesto pasta is amazing on its own. but adding grilled chicken? chef's kiss. think about adding some chicken and pesto pasta recipes that you have.
Or just some basic chicken recipes for pasta . it becomes a complete, satisfying meal, perfect for a weekend treat.
Simple Ingredients, Maximum Flavor
The magic of this dish lies in its simplicity. you don't need fancy ingredients. just good quality pasta, fresh basil, garlic, parmesan, pine nuts, and olive oil.
I use linguine. but feel free to use your favorite pasta shape. you can substitute other forms of pasta like spaghetti.
Or penne.
Making the Pesto: My Story
Okay, full disclosure: i used to be scared of making pesto. i thought it was complicated. i have even tried some easy non pasta dinner recipes because of it.
But then i realized it's ridiculously easy. just throw everything in a food processor and pulse. now i make a big batch every summer! then freeze it for those cold winter months when i crave a taste of sunshine.
You can use the store-bought one if you want a pesto recipe dinner in under 15 minutes.
Okay, let's dive into making this awesome pesto pasta recipe ! I'm thinking, nothing beats a bowl of this, especially when you need last minute recipes dinner . So, let's get started!
Ingredients & Equipment Deconstructed
Main Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need, no fuss.
- Pasta: 1 pound (450g) dried linguine or spaghetti. Quality pasta makes a difference. It should be a nice golden color.
- Basil: 2 cups (60g) fresh basil leaves. Smells amazing, right? Look for vibrant green leaves.
- Pine Nuts: 1/4 cup (30g) toasted pine nuts. They add a nutty crunch.
- Garlic: 2 cloves . Adds that yummy punch.
- Parmesan: 1/2 cup (50g) grated Parmesan cheese. Good quality Parmesan smells nutty.
- Olive Oil: 1/4 cup (60 ml) extra virgin olive oil. This makes everything smooth.
- Salt: 1 tablespoon (15 ml) , plus more to taste.
- Water: 8 cups (2 liters)
Seasoning Notes
For amazing flavor:
- The magic is in the basil and garlic. Don’t skimp!
- Parmesan is key. I once used a cheaper cheese and it was NOT the same. Honestly, splurge a little here.
- If you’re feeling fancy, a pinch of red pepper flakes adds a kick.
- Don't forget the salt! It is essential.
For a quick swap, try adding a squeeze of lemon juice at the end. Brightens everything up. Or even some lemon zest.
This is also a great recipe for dinner pesto recipes . and you can easily add chicken to make pesto and chicken pasta .
Which turns into chicken and pesto pasta recipes , yum!
Equipment Needed
No need for fancy gadgets here!
- Large pot: For boiling the pasta.
- Colander: To drain the pasta.
- Food processor: For the pesto. Or, a mortar and pestle if you’re feeling old-school!
- Measuring cups and spoons.
- Large serving bowl.
Alternatively, if you don't have a food processor, try finely chopping everything and mixing it by hand. little more elbow grease, but still works! great for an easy pasta for two if you are having a romantic evening.
You can even find some healthy supper meals with this base recipe, just add some veggies!
Remember, it's all about having fun in the kitchen, and this recipe is the perfect base for a pesto recipe dinner .
And if you need some easy non pasta dinner recipes , just skip the pasta, and grill some chicken, coat with pesto and viola!
Alright, let's dive into the wonderful world of pesto pasta! honestly, who doesn't love it? it's like a hug in a bowl, especially when you need last minute recipes dinner .
It is in fact a solution to all your dinner night problems.
Pesto Pasta: Your Weeknight Savior
We're talking about taking simple ingredients and turning them into something absolutely amazing . i’m talking about a healthy supper meals ! but let’s be honest, sometimes recipes can be a bit intimidating, right? so i'm breaking it down, making it easy, and adding a little bit of my own sparkle to it.
Prep Like a Pro: Mise en Place Magic
First things first, mise en place , which basically means "everything in its place." it's french, it's fancy, and it saves you a heck of a lot of time.
You know when you're halfway through a recipe and suddenly realise you're out of garlic? yeah, this stops that. so, chop your garlic, measure your ingredients, and let's get ready to cook! this is particularly useful for pesto because getting it right the first time is a must.
step-by-step to Pesto Perfection
- Boil 8 cups of water with 1 tablespoon of salt. Add 1 pound pasta. Cook till al dente!
- While the pasta cooks, toss 2 cups basil, 1/4 cup pine nuts, 2 cloves garlic, 1/2 cup Parmesan into a food processor.
- Pulse until finely chopped. Slowly drizzle in 1/4 cup olive oil. Season to taste. Or just use store-bought 1/2 cup pesto. Honestly, no judgement here.
- Reserve 1/2 cup of the pasta water before draining. Don’t skip this part!
- Toss the drained pasta with the pesto. Add pasta water until creamy.
- Serve with extra Parmesan.
Pro Tips from Yours Truly
- Toast those nuts! Toasting the pine nuts gives them a richer, nuttier flavour. Don't burn them!
- Don't be afraid of the water! The pasta water is liquid gold . It helps to create a lovely, creamy sauce.
- Add protein. Grill some chicken to create delicious Pesto And Chicken Pasta dish!.
- Avoid Overcooking : Cook the pasta al dente . It’s the Italian way!
- Prep Ahead : You can make pesto a day or two in advance.
And there you have it! my foolproof pesto pasta recipe . serve it up, bask in the glory of your culinary skills, and enjoy! don't forget to have fun with it.
It's really that simple. it's a delightful option for dinner pesto recipes . you could even call it an easy pasta for two kind of night.
It’s not just a meal; it's an experience.
Alright, let's dive into some extra deets about this pesto pasta recipe , shall we? think of these as your cheat codes for pesto perfection.
I've messed up enough times to learn a few things!
Recipe Notes
Let's Plate This Thing: Serving Suggestions
Honestly, this easy pasta for two (or four!) is pretty gorgeous on its own. but, presentation does matter, you know? for a simple yet elegant touch, twirl the pasta into nests on each plate.
Sprinkle with extra parmesan. a few fresh basil leaves? chef's kiss! it is also a great pesto recipe dinner .
As for sides, pesto and chicken pasta is a classic for a reason! grilled chicken breast sliced on top? yes, please .
Garlic bread is another no-brainer. a simple salad with a lemony dressing cuts through the richness nicely. so good for healthy supper meals .
Stow It Away: Storage Tips
Got leftovers? Lucky you! This pesto pasta recipe keeps well. Pop it in an airtight container and into the fridge. It will last for 2-3 days.
Freezing? not ideal , but do-able. the texture might change a bit. especially the pesto. freeze in single serving portions. thaw overnight in the fridge.
Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of water. it is one of my favorite last minute recipes dinner ideas.
Remix Time: Variations
Want to mix things up? I get it! For a dairy-free version, nutritional yeast is your friend. Seriously, it mimics that cheesy flavor like magic. Just swap it 1:1.
For a seasonal twist, try adding roasted vegetables. cherry tomatoes and courgettes are amazing in summer. butternut squash works well in autumn.
It is one of those dinner pesto recipes that is easily adjustable!
Numbers Game: Nutrition Basics
Okay, i'm no nutritionist, but here's the lowdown. this pesto pasta recipe gives you carbs from pasta. healthy fats from olive oil and nuts.
Protein from cheese. basil has antioxidants. everything in moderation, right? you can make it a bit healthier by adding chicken and pesto pasta recipes to it, or even other chicken recipes for pasta .
So there you have it! a few extra tips to make your pesto pasta recipe even better. don't be afraid to experiment.
This is food after all, not rocket science! you got this! and if you are looking for easy non pasta dinner recipes , i have a few of those too! go get cooking, mate!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this pesto pasta recipe ahead of time? Will it keep well?
While pesto pasta is best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare components in advance. The pesto itself can be made a day or two ahead and stored in the fridge, covered with a thin layer of olive oil to prevent browning. Cook the pasta just before serving for the best texture.
Tossed pesto pasta is at its prime right after its made, as the sauce can soak in a bit, making the pasta a little soggy if left for long. But it is still good for a day or 2 when refrigerated.
What's the best way to prevent my pesto from turning brown?
Nobody wants brownish green pesto! To keep your pesto a vibrant green, blanch the basil leaves in boiling water for a few seconds then shock them in ice water before processing. This sets the color. Also, adding a squeeze of lemon juice to the pesto can help prevent oxidation.
Finally, covering the surface of the pesto with a thin layer of olive oil when storing it in the fridge creates a barrier against air and preserves its color. Think of it like giving your pesto a little olive oil raincoat!
I don't have pine nuts. What can I substitute in this pesto pasta recipe?
No pine nuts? No worries! You can easily substitute walnuts, almonds, or even sunflower seeds for a similar nutty flavor and texture. Toasting whatever nut you choose will bring out its flavor even more. It might give a slightly different taste profile, but you'll still have a delicious pesto pasta on your hands.
It's all about making do with what you've got, like a proper "Make Do and Mend" attitude!
Is pesto pasta recipe healthy? What are the nutritional benefits?
Pesto pasta offers a good balance of nutrients. Basil is a source of vitamins and antioxidants, while olive oil provides healthy fats. Parmesan cheese contributes protein and calcium. However, it can be high in calories and fat, so enjoy in moderation.
Consider using whole wheat pasta to boost the fiber content and balance this dish for a more complete nutritional benefit, making it a nutritious and satisfying meal.
Can I add protein to my pesto pasta?
Absolutely! Adding protein turns pesto pasta into a complete and satisfying meal. Grilled chicken or shrimp are classic choices that pair beautifully with the pesto flavor. You could also try adding cooked white beans or chickpeas for a vegetarian option that boosts the protein and fiber content.
For a quick and easy boost, toss in some cooked, crumbled Italian sausage. Adding a protein, of any sort, to your pesto pasta recipe offers an excellent and delicious way to enhance the nutritional value and create a more substantial dinner.
I'm allergic to dairy. Can I still enjoy pesto pasta?
Yes, you can! Simply substitute the Parmesan cheese with nutritional yeast or a dairy-free Parmesan alternative. Nutritional yeast has a cheesy, nutty flavor that works well in pesto. There are also many vegan Parmesan cheeses available in stores now.
Check the pesto sauce you buy at the store, as even some of them can have dairy in them. With a few clever swaps, you can create a delicious dairy-free pesto pasta that everyone can enjoy. Carry on cooking!
Vibrant Basil Pesto Pasta A Weeknight Wonder
Ingredients:
Instructions:
Nutrition Facts:
| Calories | 600 calories |
|---|---|
| Fat | 35g |
| Fiber | 5g |