Basil Festo Pasta Making Recipe One-Day Class

Hello everyone, Chef of the Year here!

Today, I’m excited to introduce you to a healthy and delicious recipe for 'Basil Pesto Pasta.' Basil pesto is a sauce made from fragrant basil and rich nuts, which pairs wonderfully with pasta for a perfect meal. This dish is simple yet elegant, making it perfect for any occasion. Let’s get started!

Ingredients

First, let’s prepare the necessary ingredients. This recipe serves 4.

Basil Pesto Ingredients:

IngredientAmount

Fresh basil leaves	2 cups
Parmesan cheese	1/2 cup
Pine nuts	1/3 cup
Garlic (minced)	2 cloves
Olive oil	1/2 cup
Salt	To taste
Black pepper	To taste

Pasta Ingredients:

IngredientAmount

Spaghetti or fettuccine	400g
Salt	1 tbsp
Olive oil	1 tbsp
Cherry tomatoes	1 cup
Fresh mozzarella cheese (optional)	1/2 cup
Fresh basil leaves (for garnish)	As needed

Instructions

Make the Basil Pesto:

1. Prepare the Basil:
   • Wash the basil leaves thoroughly and remove excess water.
2. Blend the Ingredients:
   • In a blender or food processor, combine basil leaves, Parmesan cheese, pine nuts, and minced garlic. Blend until smooth.
3. Add Olive Oil:
   • Gradually add olive oil while blending to achieve a creamy consistency. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Prepare the Pasta:

1. Cook the Pasta:
   • Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions, reducing the cooking time by 1-2 minutes for an al dente texture.
2. Drain the Pasta:
   • Drain the pasta and toss with a little olive oil to prevent sticking.

Combine Pesto and Pasta:

1. Mix the Pesto with Pasta:
   • In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta with the prepared basil pesto. Mix well to ensure the pesto coats the pasta evenly.
2. Add Tomatoes and Cheese:
   • Halve the cherry tomatoes and tear the fresh mozzarella cheese into small pieces. Add these to the pasta and gently toss to combine.

Plate and Garnish:

1. Serve the Pasta:
   • Plate the pasta and garnish with fresh basil leaves. Optionally, grate additional Parmesan cheese on top for extra flavor.

Additional Tips

1. Use Different Nuts:
   • Try substituting pine nuts with walnuts, almonds, or cashews for a different flavor profile.
2. Add Lemon Juice:
   • For a refreshing twist, add a splash of lemon juice to the pesto.
3. Incorporate Vegetables:
   • Add fresh vegetables like grilled asparagus, mushrooms, or spinach to enhance the dish’s flavor and texture.
4. Try Different Pasta:
   • Experiment with different types of pasta such as penne, fusilli, or farfalle for varied textures.

Final Thoughts

How did you like it? The basil pesto pasta we made together combines the fresh aroma of basil with the rich flavor of nuts, creating a truly delightful dish. This recipe is simple yet sophisticated, perfect for enjoying with family or friends. I hope this recipe has been a helpful addition to your culinary journey.

We look forward to sharing more delicious and special recipes with you next time. Enjoy your basil pesto pasta and have a wonderful day! Your feedback is always welcome. Please share your thoughts in the comments. Let’s continue to enjoy more delicious and healthy cooking together.

Benefits of Basil Pesto Pasta

1. Fresh Ingredients:
   • Basil pesto is made with fresh basil and nuts, providing rich flavor and aroma while promoting healthy eating.
2. Simple Preparation:
   • This recipe is easy to follow and doesn’t require special tools or techniques, allowing you to create a delicious meal with fresh ingredients.
3. Versatile Variations:
   • The basic recipe can be customized with various vegetables or different types of pasta to suit your taste.
4. Nutrient-Rich Meal:
   • Using fresh basil, nuts, and olive oil, this dish is packed with vitamins, protein, and healthy fats, making it a nutritious choice.

See You Next Time

We’ll be back with more delicious and special recipes. Enjoy your basil pesto pasta and have a great day! Your feedback is always welcome. Please share your thoughts in the comments. Let’s continue to enjoy more delicious and healthy cooking together.