Super Delicious! 4 Levels of Pesto Pasta

Today we want to share with you a special post: 

 Amateur to Food Scientist

Indulge your taste buds in the timeless allure of Pesto Pasta, a culinary classic that has transcended its Italian origins to become a beloved dish enjoyed worldwide.

At its essence, pesto pasta is a celebration of simplicity and fresh flavors, bringing together a few key ingredients to create a symphony of taste that is both comforting and sophisticated.

The heart of pesto pasta lies in its namesake sauce, pesto, which traditionally consists of fresh basil leaves, pine nuts, garlic, Parmesan cheese, and olive oil.

The magic unfolds as these ingredients are blended to perfection, resulting in a vibrant green sauce that encapsulates the essence of Mediterranean cuisine.

The aromatic basil, the richness of the Parmesan, the nuttiness of pine nuts, and the pungency of garlic coalesce into a flavor profile that is simultaneously bright, herbaceous, and satisfying.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups fresh basil leaves, packed
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 cup pine nuts (you can also use walnuts for a different flavor)
• 3 cloves garlic, peeled
• 1/2 cup extra-virgin olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 pound (about 450g) pasta of your choice (spaghetti, linguine, or any preferred type)
• Additional Parmesan cheese for serving (optional)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Pesto Sauce:
   • In a food processor, combine the basil, Parmesan cheese, pine nuts, and garlic.
   • Pulse until the ingredients are finely chopped.
2. Add Olive Oil:
   • With the food processor running, slowly pour in the olive oil through the feed tube.
   • Continue blending until the mixture reaches a smooth and creamy consistency.
3. Season:
   • Season the pesto with salt and pepper to taste. Adjust the seasoning as needed.
4. Cook the Pasta:
   • Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
   • Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente.
5. Reserve Pasta Water:
   • Before draining the pasta, reserve about 1/2 cup of the cooking water. This starchy water will help the sauce adhere to the pasta.
6. Combine Pasta and Pesto:
   • In a large mixing bowl, toss the cooked pasta with the prepared pesto sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add a bit of the reserved pasta water to achieve your desired consistency.
7. Serve:
   • Plate the pesto pasta and, if desired, sprinkle with additional Parmesan cheese.
8. Optional Additions:
   • Customize your dish by adding extras like cherry tomatoes, grilled chicken, or roasted vegetables.
9. Enjoy:
   • Serve immediately and enjoy your delicious homemade Pesto Pasta!

This recipe yields a vibrant and flavorful dish that captures the essence of classic Italian cuisine. Feel free to get creative with your choice of pasta and additional ingredients to suit your preferences!

Enjoy this easy video tutorial about Pesto Pasta Recipe

Source: Epicurious

Did you find this post useful or inspiring? Save THIS PIN to your Cooking Board on Pinterest!