Pesto Pasta
There’s something undeniably comforting about a bowl of Pesto Pasta. It’s one of those dishes that brings me back to my childhood, where I would often watch my grandmother prepare her version in her cozy kitchen, filled with the aroma of fresh basil and garlic. As she expertly tossed the ingredients into the pot, I could hardly wait to dig in. The vibrant green color of the pesto sauce always made it look so appetizing. Creating Pesto Pasta feels like capturing a piece of my family history, and each time I make it, I’m reminded of the love and laughter shared around the dinner table.
Recipe Snapshot
60 mins
0 mins
0 mins
Medium
400 kcal
10 g
Keto, Paleo, Whole30
20 g
Skillet, Blender, Large Pot, Chef’s Knife, Wooden Spoon
Why This Pesto Pasta Works
Quick and Simple
One of the things I love most about Pesto Pasta is how quick and easy it is to make. In just a matter of minutes, you can whip up a delicious meal that satisfies even the hungriest of appetites. It’s perfect for those busy weeknights when you want something tasty without spending hours in the kitchen.
Fresh Ingredients
The freshness of the ingredients truly makes this dish shine. Using linguine noodles, fresh cherry tomatoes, and homemade or store-bought pesto creates a vibrant combination of flavors and textures. Each bite bursts with the taste of summer, thanks to the bright flavors of the basil and the sweetness of the tomatoes.
Versatile Dish
Pesto Pasta is incredibly versatile. You can easily customize it based on your preferences or what you have on hand. Want to add more veggies? Go ahead and toss in some spinach or zucchini. Prefer a little protein? Grilled chicken or sautéed shrimp would complement this dish perfectly. The possibilities are endless!
Perfect for Any Occasion
Whether it’s a casual family dinner or a gathering with friends, Pesto Pasta fits right in. Serve it as a main course or as a side dish at your next barbecue. Its colorful presentation makes it a standout on any table, and it’s sure to impress your guests.
Hearty and Satisfying
Despite being a simple pasta dish, Pesto Pasta is surprisingly hearty. The combination of the noodles and the rich pesto sauce creates a filling meal that leaves you satisfied but not overly stuffed. It’s a comfort food that feels indulgent without the heaviness.
Key Ingredients for Pesto Pasta
When it comes to Pesto Pasta, the key ingredients are simple yet vital. Each component plays a crucial role in creating that mouthwatering experience we all crave. The linguine noodles serve as the perfect base, while pesto provides that aromatic flavor, complemented by fresh cherry tomatoes and a hint of red onion. Let’s dive into what makes these ingredients work so beautifully together.
- 8 ounces of linguine noodles: The foundation of your dish; you can use any pasta variety you prefer.
- 1 tablespoon of extra-virgin olive oil: Adds richness and enhances the overall flavor of the dish.
- 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced: Provides a sweet and slightly sharp flavor that elevates the dish.
- 1 cup of cherry tomatoes, sliced in half: Sweet and juicy, adding freshness and color.
- 1/2 to 3/4 cup prepared pesto: The hero of the dish; whether homemade or store-bought, it’s packed with flavor.
- Salt and pepper: Essential seasonings to enhance all the flavors.
The Process for Making Pesto Pasta
Making Pesto Pasta is a delightful experience that fills your kitchen with wonderful aromas. The steps are straightforward, making it approachable even for novice cooks. Let’s embark on this culinary adventure together!
- Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. This step is crucial as it ensures your linguine noodles are flavorful. Once boiling, add the noodles and cook them according to the package directions until they’re al dente, usually around 8 to 10 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- While waiting for the water to boil and the pasta to cook, take this time to prepare the vegetables. Slice the red onion thinly and cut the cherry tomatoes in half. The colors will brighten up your dish and add a lovely texture.
- If you’re making fresh pesto, now is the time to prepare it. Add your pesto ingredients into a blender or food processor. Blend until smooth, adjusting the consistency with a bit more oil or water if necessary.
- Once the pasta is cooked, reserve about a quarter cup of the starchy cooking water, then drain the noodles in a colander. Don’t rinse them; you want that starch to help the sauce cling nicely.
- In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add a tablespoon of extra-virgin olive oil. Allow it to heat up for a moment. When hot, add the red onion. Sauté for about five minutes until it becomes soft and translucent.
- Add the cherry tomatoes to the skillet with the onions. Cook for an additional 2 to 3 minutes, just until they start to soften. Season the mixture with a bit of salt and pepper to enhance their natural flavors.
- Now it’s time to combine everything! Add the cooked linguine noodles to the skillet, followed by the prepared pesto and the reserved cooking water. The water helps to loosen the sauce and coat every strand of pasta evenly.
- Gently toss everything together until the noodles are coated in the vibrant pesto sauce and heated through. Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed, adding more salt and pepper to your liking.
- Serve immediately, garnishing with additional pesto or even a sprinkle of grated cheese if desired. Enjoy your creation while it’s warm!
Things Worth Knowing
- Cooking Pasta: Always remember to salt your pasta water generously. It should taste like the sea, as this is your chance to infuse the noodles with flavor.
- Using Pesto: If you’re using store-bought pesto, look for one with high-quality ingredients. A homemade pesto can elevate your dish significantly.
- Adding Vegetables: Feel free to incorporate other vegetables like zucchini or spinach. Just sauté them along with the onions to ensure everything cooks evenly.
- Serving Ideas: Pesto Pasta is great served warm, but you can also enjoy it cold as a pasta salad. Just let it cool and mix in some additional veggies.
Change It Up
There are endless ways to put a twist on Pesto Pasta. Here are some ideas to inspire your next dish.
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a little water or olive oil to loosen the sauce.
- Freezing: You can freeze Pesto Pasta, but it’s best to freeze the sauce separately. Cooked pasta doesn’t always thaw well.
- Pairing: This dish pairs beautifully with a side salad or some garlic bread for a complete meal.
- Variations: Consider adding grilled chicken, shrimp, or roasted vegetables to make it even heartier.
- Herb Swap: Experiment with different herbs in your pesto, such as arugula or spinach, for a unique flavor.
Perfect Pairings for Pesto Pasta
Serving Pesto Pasta is a joy, as it complements a myriad of flavors and dishes. Here are some delightful pairings and suggestions to elevate your meal.
- Side Salads: A fresh garden salad with a light vinaigrette balances the richness of the pasta. Try mixing in arugula, sliced cucumbers, and cherry tomatoes.
- Garlic Bread: Nothing beats warm, crusty garlic bread alongside your Pesto Pasta. The buttery, garlicky flavor is a perfect match.
- Wine Pairing: A crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc would pair nicely with the bright flavors of the pesto.
- Picnics: Pesto Pasta is fantastic for picnics or potlucks. Just prepare it ahead, chill it, and voilà—an easy, crowd-pleasing dish.
- Seasonal Variations: In the summer, add grilled vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers for a seasonal twist. In the fall, consider tossing in roasted butternut squash for a cozy variation.
FAQ
Conclusion
In summary, Pesto Pasta is a delightful dish that combines simplicity with vibrant flavors. It’s perfect for any occasion, whether you’re enjoying a quiet dinner at home or entertaining guests. I encourage you to try making it tonight, not just for its taste but for the joy of creating something special with your loved ones. Serve it up, savor each bite, and enjoy the warmth it brings to your table.
Pesto Pasta
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Bring a pot of salted water to a boil, and prepare the noodles according to the directions on the package.
- While you wait for the water to come to a boil, slice the red onion and cherry tomatoes.
- Once the pasta is cooking, prepare the pesto, if you haven't already. Add the pesto ingredients to a blender, and blend until smooth.
- When the pasta is tender, reserve a 1/4 cup of the starchy cooking water, then drain the pasta.
- In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add a tablespoon of olive oil and start sautéing the red onion. It should soften in about 5 minutes.
- Then add in the cherry tomatoes and stir briefly. Season with a 1/4 teaspoon of salt as you stir the veggies.
- When the veggies are as tender as you'd like them to be, add in the pasta, prepared pesto, and the cooking water to help thin out the pesto sauce, if needed.
- Stir until everything is hot and evenly coated, then season with salt and pepper to taste.
Notes
- Nutrition information: is for 1 of 4 servings, using a generic store-bought pesto sauce. This will vary dramatically, based on what kind of pesto you use. My pesto recipes are lower in calories, since they use less oil.
