Good reasons to make pasta with green pesto
This recipe for Pasta with Green Pesto is perfect because it uses fresh basil and toasted pine nuts for a deep flavour. You can make the pesto while the pasta boils to save time. Adding a little pasta water to the sauce makes it creamy and helps it coat every piece. It is a light yet satisfying dish that the whole family will enjoy.
Follow these simple steps for pasta with green pesto
Cook pasta: Boil a large pot of salted water and add the pasta. Cook it according to the packet instructions until it is just tender. Reserve a small cup of the cooking water before you drain the pasta.
Toast nuts: Place the pine nuts in a small dry frying pan over medium heat. Shake the pan frequently until the nuts turn golden brown and smell fragrant. Remove them from the heat immediately so they do not burn.
Make pesto: Put the basil, toasted pine nuts, garlic and parmesan into a food processor. Pulse until the ingredients are finely chopped. Slowly pour in the olive oil while the motor is running until you have a smooth green sauce.
Combine all: Return the drained pasta to the pot and pour over the sauce. Add a splash of the reserved pasta water to help the Pasta with Green Pesto become glossy. Stir well and season with salt and pepper before serving.
Good advice for making pasta with green pesto
Always use fresh basil for the best result as dried herbs will not give the same vibrant colour or taste. If you do not have pine nuts, you can use walnuts or cashews as a simple alternative. Make sure to grate the cheese yourself for a better texture in the sauce.
Adding a squeeze of lemon juice can help keep the Pasta with Green Pesto looking bright green for longer. If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two days. You can also add cherry tomatoes or grilled chicken to make the meal even more filling.
You might also enjoy
fried rice with chicken,
flounder bake or
duck pie.
