Perfectly Balanced Pesto Pasta: A Healthy Yet Flavorful Meal

Looking for a delicious pasta recipe that is both healthy and bursting with flavor? Look no further than this perfectly balanced pesto pasta! This dish combines the freshness of basil, the richness of pine nuts, and the creamy texture of Parmesan cheese. Serve it as a main course or as a side to enhance any meal.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound (450g) of your favorite pasta
• 1/2 cup of pine nuts, lightly toasted
• 3 cups fresh basil leaves, chopped finely
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, freshly grated
• 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil (EVOO)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Grated Parmesan for garnish (optional)

Cooking Time: 30 minutes

To prepare this pesto pasta, start by cooking your pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. While the pasta is cooking, you can prepare the pesto sauce. Begin by toasting the pine nuts in a dry pan for about two minutes over medium heat until they become golden brown and aromatic.

Once the pine nuts are done, place them in a food processor along with the basil leaves, garlic cloves, Parmesan cheese, and extra virgin olive oil. Blend the mixture until it reaches a smooth consistency. If needed, add more olive oil to achieve your desired texture. Season the pesto sauce generously with salt and pepper.

After the pasta has finished cooking, drain it thoroughly in a colander, leaving behind about half a cup of pasta water. This starchy water will help the sauce adhere better to the pasta strands. Toss the hot pasta with the prepared pesto sauce. If desired, you can add some of the pasta water to the mixture to achieve the right consistency.

Once everything is well combined and coated evenly, transfer the pasta onto a large serving platter. Garnish with additional grated Parmesan cheese for extra flavor and serve immediately. You can also sprinkle some fresh basil leaves or a drizzle of olive oil over it if you wish.

Serving Suggestions:

1. Enjoy as a main dish accompanied by a side salad or steamed vegetables.
2. Pair with grilled chicken for a hearty meal.
3. Mix the pesto pasta with roasted butternut squash for a vegetarian option that’s also packed with nutrients.

Nutritional Information:

Per serving (based on 4 servings): Calories: approximately 650; Carbohydrates: around 95g; Protein: about 25g; Fat: roughly 45g. Please note that the nutritional information may vary slightly depending on specific ingredient brands and types of pasta used.

Why Choose This Recipe?

This pesto pasta recipe is a perfect choice for those looking to enjoy a healthy yet flavorful dish without compromising on taste or texture. The combination of fresh herbs, pine nuts, and cheese creates a delightful flavor profile that satisfies the palate while providing essential nutrients.

Basil in particular is rich in vitamins A and C, as well as antioxidants which support overall health. Pine nuts offer healthy fats beneficial for brain function and heart health. Moreover, Parmesan cheese contains calcium, vitamin D, and protein – all vital components of a balanced diet.

Additional Tips:

• If you prefer less intense flavors, you can reduce the amount of garlic or omit it altogether.
• To make this dish even more substantial, add some cooked shrimp or chicken to the pesto pasta.
• For those who cannot consume gluten, choose a gluten-free pasta variety to enjoy this meal without any dietary restrictions.

This pesto pasta is not only delightful for you and your family but also impressive at dinner parties. Its versatility allows it to cater to various tastes and dietary needs making it an excellent addition to your recipe repertoire.