Pesto Pasta Recipe

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Cook Time: 10 minutes

This top-rated pesto pasta recipe, which comes together in just 15 minutes, is the perfect quick and easy weeknight dinner.

Here's how to make this delicious pesto pasta:

Ingredients:

• 1 (16 ounce) package pasta
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• cup chopped onion
• 2 tablespoons pesto (or more to taste)
• Salt to taste
• Freshly ground black pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese

Directions:

Step 1: Gather all your ingredients to ensure you have everything ready.

Step 2: Fill a large pot with lightly salted water and bring to a rolling boil. Stir in the pasta and return to a boil. Cook the pasta uncovered, stirring occasionally, until it's tender but still firm to the bite, about 8 to 10 minutes. Drain the pasta and transfer it to a large bowl.

Step 3: While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a frying pan over medium-low heat. Add the chopped onion and cook, stirring occasionally, until the onion becomes softened, about 3 minutes.

Step 4: Stir in the pesto sauce, salt, and pepper into the pan with the onion. Continue cooking for 1-2 minutes until the mixture is warmed through.

Step 5: Pour the pesto mixture over the hot pasta and toss well to coat. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and mix until everything is evenly distributed.

What to Serve With Pesto Pasta:

This versatile pesto pasta is perfect as a standalone dish, but you can easily add your favorite protein. Grilled chicken, sausage, or even chickpeas make delicious additions. For side dishes, consider pairing it with:

• French Baguettes
• Classic Restaurant Caesar Salad
• Balsamic Bruschetta

How to Store Pesto Pasta:

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight in the refrigerator for 3-5 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stove for best results.

Nutrition Facts (per serving):

• Calories: 225
• Fat: 7g
• Carbohydrates: 32g
• Protein: 8g
• Cholesterol: 44mg
• Sodium: 71mg
• Dietary Fiber: 3g
• Vitamin C: 1mg
• Calcium: 59mg
• Iron: 2mg

Cooks Note: Leftovers make a fantastic cold pasta salad when paired with fresh tomatoes.

Allrecipes Community Tips and Praise:

"I doubled the sauce," says 5-star reviewer Sarah Stewart. "I added garlic, cherry tomatoes, feta cheese, red pepper flakes, and fresh basil. Served with a breaded chicken cutlet, garlic bread, and salad."

"This is a huge winner," according to Curt McLey. "And versatile too. I can imagine adding grilled chicken or shrimp for an even heartier meal."

"Quick and easy," says Aja. "Just how I like a recipe when I get off work and want to eat right away without spending a ton of time in the kitchen. This is a go-to base recipe to add any protein of your choice."

Pesto pasta is a simple, yet flavorful dish that has become a beloved staple in many households worldwide. This iconic Italian dish combines the rich, aromatic flavor of pesto with al dente pasta, creating a satisfying meal. While it may seem like a modern invention, pesto pasta has deep historical roots and is influenced by regional variations across Italy. Let's take a closer look at the origins, regional twists, and how this dish stands out from other similar pasta recipes.

Origin of Pesto Pasta

The history of pesto pasta can be traced back to the Liguria region of Italy, specifically the city of Genoa, where the famous pesto alla Genovese was first created. The word "pesto" comes from the Italian verb "pestare," which means "to pound" or "to crush," referring to the traditional method of preparing pesto by grinding ingredients in a mortar and pestle. Originally, pesto was made from a blend of garlic, basil, pine nuts, Parmesan cheese, olive oil, and salt, giving it its signature green color and bold flavor. Over time, this mixture was paired with pasta, becoming one of Italy's most famous dishes. Pesto pasta quickly spread throughout Italy and beyond, with variations developing depending on local ingredients and culinary traditions.

Regional Variations

While the classic pesto recipe originates from Genoa, several Italian regions have developed their own variations of pesto pasta. For example:

• Pesto alla Siciliana: In Sicily, a variation of pesto is made by replacing basil with sun-dried tomatoes and adding almonds or walnuts instead of pine nuts. This version has a tangy and nutty flavor.
• Pesto Rosso: Another variation, popular in Southern Italy, uses sun-dried tomatoes as the base instead of fresh basil, resulting in a richer, red-colored sauce.
• Pesto alla Calabrese: Originating from Calabria, this pesto includes hot chili peppers for a spicy kick, along with roasted red peppers, making it a more robust and fiery version of the traditional dish.

These regional twists highlight the versatility of pesto pasta, allowing it to adapt to the local tastes and available ingredients, making it a dish that can be enjoyed in various forms across Italy.

How Pesto Pasta Differs from Other Similar Dishes

Pesto pasta stands out from other Italian pasta dishes, such as carbonara or arrabbiata, because of its unique cold processing method. While many Italian sauces are cooked, pesto is made by simply blending raw ingredients together, preserving the freshness of the herbs and giving the dish its distinct, vibrant flavor. In contrast, dishes like carbonara require heat to cook eggs and pancetta, while arrabbiata is a spicy tomato-based sauce cooked on the stove.

Furthermore, pesto pastas use of basil and nuts provides a unique flavor profile that other pasta dishes do not offer. It is lighter than heavier, cream-based sauces, making it a refreshing choice for warmer months.

Where Pesto Pasta is Usually Served

Pesto pasta is often served as a main dish in Italian restaurants and homes, especially during the summer months. Its fresh and light nature makes it a favorite choice for warm-weather meals. It is commonly enjoyed with various types of pasta, such as spaghetti, linguine, or trofie, a short, twisted Ligurian pasta traditionally paired with pesto.

In addition to being a main dish, pesto pasta is also frequently served as a side dish in Italian banquets, alongside grilled meats or seafood. It can be a part of a larger spread, offering a cool, herby contrast to richer, heartier dishes.

Interesting Facts About Pesto Pasta

• Pestos Versatility: While traditional pesto is made with basil, the concept of pesto has been adapted to many different herbs, such as parsley, arugula, and even mint, showcasing its flexibility in the kitchen.
• Nut-Free Pesto: If you have a nut allergy, you can easily make a nut-free pesto by omitting pine nuts or walnuts and using seeds, such as sunflower seeds, instead.
• World Pesto Day: Did you know there is a World Pesto Day? Celebrated annually on May 18th, this day honors pesto in all its forms, giving pesto lovers worldwide a reason to indulge in their favorite green sauce.
• Pesto and Pasta Pairings: While pesto pasta is often paired with simple ingredients like cheese and roasted vegetables, it also pairs well with proteins like grilled chicken, shrimp, or sausage, making it a versatile dish for various occasions.

In conclusion, pesto pasta is not just a mealit is a celebration of Italian culinary tradition, history, and regional diversity. Whether you enjoy it in its classic form or experiment with regional variations, pesto pasta is sure to delight with its fragrant, fresh flavors. Whether served on a busy weeknight or as part of a festive meal, this dish is both satisfying and simple, making it a timeless favorite around the world.

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