Perfect Pesto Pasta 🍝🌿

This recipe for Perfect Pesto Pasta brings together the vibrant flavors of fresh basil and garlic with the heartiness of your favorite pasta. It’s not only easy to make but also incredibly versatile, making it a delightful dish for any occasion—from weeknight dinners to elegant gatherings. Pair it with garlic bread and a simple salad for a complete meal! 🥗🧄

Ingredients

For the pesto

• 2 cups fresh basil leaves, tightly packed
• 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
• 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/3 cup pine nuts (or walnuts for a twist)
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Juice of 1/2 lemon

For the pasta

• 12 oz. pasta of your choice (spaghetti, penne, or fettuccine work great)
• Salt for pasta water
• Fresh basil leaves for garnish
• Extra Parmesan cheese for topping

Instructions

1. Prepare the pesto: In a food processor, combine the basil, pine nuts, garlic, and Parmesan. Pulse until finely chopped.

   🥄 Scrape down the sides as needed to ensure everything is blended evenly.

2. Blend in olive oil: With the food processor running, slowly drizzle in the olive oil until the mixture is smooth and creamy. Add lemon juice, salt, and pepper to taste.

3. Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente.

4. Combine: Reserve about 1 cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta. Return the pasta to the pot and toss it with the pesto. If needed, add reserved pasta water a little at a time to achieve your desired creaminess.

5. Serve: Plate the pasta and garnish with fresh basil leaves and a sprinkle of extra Parmesan cheese.

   🍽️ Toss in some cherry tomatoes or sautéed vegetables for added flavor and texture!

Variations

• Nut-free: Omit the nuts for a nut-free version, or replace them with sunflower seeds for a different flavor profile.
• Vegan: Substitute nutritional yeast for the Parmesan cheese and use a vegan pasta to make this dish plant-based.
• Spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the pesto for a kick of heat!
• Creamy: Stir in a splash of heavy cream or a dollop of crème fraîche at the end for a rich, creamy version.

🌶️ Experiment with different herbs! Parsley or arugula can be blended with basil for unique flavor combinations.

Enjoy your Perfect Pesto Pasta—it's sure to be a hit with everyone at your table! 🍽️🌟