What is good about pasta with red pesto
This pasta with red pesto is incredibly easy to prepare because it requires very little actual cooking. The rich flavour comes from the sun dried tomatoes in the pesto which pairs perfectly with fresh basil. It is a great vegetarian option that satisfies the whole family. You only need one pot and a few minutes to get everything ready.
How to cook pasta with red pesto
Boil pasta: Fill a large saucepan with water and add a pinch of salt. Bring the water to a boil and add the dried pasta. Cook according to the packet instructions until it is al dente. Drain the water but keep a small amount of the cooking liquid for later.
Toast nuts: Place the pine nuts in a small frying pan over medium heat. Shake the pan frequently so they do not burn. Toast them for a few minutes until they are golden and fragrant. Remove them from the heat and set aside to cool.
Combine ingredients: Put the cooked pasta back into the warm saucepan. Stir in the whole jar of pasta with red pesto until all the pieces are well coated. Add the halved cherry tomatoes and a splash of the reserved pasta water to make the sauce creamy. Mix everything gently over low heat for one minute.
Serve: Transfer the mixture to a serving bowl or individual plates. Scatter the toasted pine nuts and grated parmesan cheese over the top. Garnish with fresh basil leaves and a drizzle of olive oil. Serve the dish immediately while it is still warm.
Tips and tricks for pasta with red pesto
Choosing a high quality jar of sauce will improve the final taste of your pasta with red pesto. If the sauce feels too thick, always add a tablespoon of the starchy pasta water to loosen it up. You can add extra vegetables like baby spinach or roasted peppers to increase the nutritional value. Toasting the pine nuts is an optional step but it adds a lovely crunch and nutty flavour to the meal.
Try using wholemeal pasta if you want a version that keeps you full for longer. Always wait to add the fresh basil until the very end so it stays bright and fragrant. If you want a bit of heat, you can add a pinch of dried chilli flakes during the final mixing step.
Find more ideas here:
salmon ceviche,
turbot with white wine sauce or
pasta with confit duck.
