Looking for a delicious and satisfying meal for a cozy night in? Look no further than this delightful recipe that combines the rich flavors of pesto with the comforting goodness of pasta. This dish is perfect for a busy weeknight dinner or a leisurely weekend meal with loved ones. The simplicity of the ingredients and the ease of preparation make it a go-to recipe for both novice and experienced home cooks alike. Let’s dive into this mouthwatering recipe using pesto and pasta!
Recipe Using Pesto And Pasta
Ingredients:
– 8 oz of pasta (such as penne or spaghetti)
– 1/2 cup of basil pesto
– 1 cup of cherry tomatoes, halved
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup of grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Reserve a cup of pasta water before draining.
2. Prepare the pesto sauce: In a large skillet, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about a minute until fragrant. Be careful not to brown the garlic.
3. Combine pasta and pesto: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the garlic. Toss the pasta with the basil pesto until it is well coated. If the sauce is too thick, you can gradually add some of the reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency.
4. Add cherry tomatoes: Gently fold in the halved cherry tomatoes, allowing them to warm through but still maintain their shape. Season with salt and pepper to taste, adjusting as needed.
5. Serve and garnish: Transfer the pesto pasta to serving plates or a large bowl. Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over the top and garnish with fresh basil leaves for an extra burst of flavor and color.
6. Enjoy your flavorful pesto and pasta creation with a glass of your favorite wine or a refreshing homemade lemonade for a complete dining experience.
With its vibrant colors and fresh flavors, this pesto and pasta recipe is sure to become a new favorite in your culinary repertoire. It’s a versatile dish that can be easily customized with additional ingredients like grilled chicken, sautéed veggies, or toasted pine nuts for added texture. Experiment with different types of pasta shapes to see which one complements the pesto sauce best. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or hosting a gathering, this recipe is a fantastic choice that guarantees a satisfying and delicious meal every time. Give it a try and savor the simple pleasures of homemade cooking at its finest.
