Prep
15 min
Cook
10 min
Total
25 min
Servings
4

Method

  1. Remove the basil leaves from the stems, ensuring you have about 2 cups of leaves. Wash the leaves in a large bowl of cold water and dry them using a salad spinner or paper towels. Peel and smash the garlic.

  2. In a food processor, combine the basil, garlic, and pine nuts. Pulse until coarsely chopped. While the processor is running, gradually add the olive oil and continue processing until the pesto becomes smooth. Transfer the pesto to a large bowl and stir in the cheese. Season with salt and pepper.

  3. In a large pot, bring cold water to a boil over high heat. Add a generous amount of salt to the boiling water. Cook the penne according to the package instructions, stirring occasionally, until it is al dente (about 8 to 10 minutes). Drain the pasta in a colander, reserving about 1/4 cup of the cooking water.

  4. Add the drained pasta to the bowl with the pesto. Use tongs to toss the pasta with enough of the reserved cooking water so that the pesto coats the pasta evenly. Season with additional salt and pepper if desired. Serve the dish warm.

  5. Optional upgrades:

  6. a. To make the pesto creamy, add 1/4 cup of ricotta cheese when processing the basil, garlic, and pine nuts. This variation works well with tortellini or ravioli.

  7. b. For

About this recipe

Introduction

Are you in the mood for a delicious and comforting pasta dish? Look no further than Penne with Pesto! This classic Italian dish combines al dente penne pasta with a flavorful and vibrant pesto sauce. It's a simple yet satisfying meal that can be enjoyed by the whole family. So, let's dive into the world of Penne with Pesto and learn how to make this mouthwatering dish.

The Perfect Combination

Just like peanut butter and jelly or mac and cheese, penne and pesto are a match made in culinary heaven. The cylindrical shape of penne allows it to hold onto the rich and creamy pesto sauce, ensuring that each bite is bursting with flavor. The vibrant green color of the pesto is not only visually appealing but also a sign of the fresh ingredients used in its preparation.

Picking the Right Pasta

When it comes to penne, you have a few options to consider. There's regular penne, whole wheat penne, and even gluten-free penne for those with dietary restrictions. Each variety offers a slightly different texture and taste, so choose the one that suits your preferences.

Creating the Perfect Pesto

Pesto is traditionally made with fresh basil leaves, garlic, pine nuts, Parmesan cheese, and olive oil. However, you can get creative and add your own twist to the recipe. Try using different herbs like cilantro or parsley, or even experiment with different nuts like walnuts or almonds. The possibilities are endless!

Cooking Instructions

Now that we have discussed the basics, it's time to get cooking! Follow these simple steps to create your own Penne with Pesto:

Step 1Boil the Pasta

Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook until it is al dente, which means it should still have a slight bite to it. This will ensure that the pasta holds its shape and texture when mixed with the pesto sauce.

Step 2Make the Pesto

In a food processor or blender, combine the fresh basil leaves, garlic, pine nuts, Parmesan cheese, and olive oil. Blend until smooth and creamy. If the pesto is too thick, you can add a little bit of pasta water to thin it out.

Step 3Combine and Serve

Drain the cooked penne pasta and transfer it to a large mixing bowl. Add the pesto sauce and toss until each piece of pasta is well coated. Serve immediately and garnish with some extra Parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of fresh basil leaves.

Conclusion

Penne with Pesto is a classic Italian dish that never fails to impress. The combination of perfectly cooked penne pasta and the flavorsome pesto sauce is a delight for the senses. Whether you're cooking for yourself or hosting a dinner party, this dish is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. So, why not give it a try and bring a taste of Italy into your kitchen?

Frequently asked questions

Can I use a different type of pasta for this recipe?

Absolutely! While penne is the traditional choice, you can experiment with other pasta shapes like fusilli or farfalle.

Can I make the pesto sauce in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the pesto sauce in advance and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.

Can I freeze leftover Penne with Pesto?

Unfortunately, the texture of the pasta may change when frozen and thawed. It's best to enjoy Penne with Pesto fresh.

Can I add vegetables to the dish?

Absolutely! You can add sautéed vegetables like cherry tomatoes, zucchini, or spinach to give the dish an extra burst of flavor and nutrition.

Can I make a vegan version of Penne with Pesto?

Yes, you can substitute the Parmesan cheese with nutritional yeast or a vegan cheese alternative to make a delicious vegan-friendly version of this dish.

How long does it take to make Penne with Pesto?

From start to finish, it usually takes around 20-25 minutes to prepare this dish.

Can I add protein to the dish?

Absolutely! Grilled chicken, shrimp, or even tofu can be added to the dish to make it more filling and satisfying.

What can I serve with Penne with Pesto?

A simple side salad or some garlic bread would complement this dish perfectly. It's also delicious on its own as a main course.

AprilCook, recipe developer and the heart of Chefwiz. More about April

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