Easy Pesto Pasta Recipe
User Reviews
5
-
Prep Time
5 mins
-
Cook Time
5 mins
-
Servings
4
-
Calories
501 kcal
-
Course
Main Course
-
Cuisine
Italian
Easy Pesto Pasta Recipe
Description
Easy Pesto Pasta Recipe showcases linguine combined with a homemade or dried pesto sauce accented simply by salt, black pepper, and Pecorino Romano cheese. The linguine is cooked until al dente and then mixed with pesto and a small amount of reserved pasta water to achieve a smooth coating. The sharpness and saltiness of Pecorino Romano sprinkled on top complement the herbaceous and slightly nutty pesto base.
The method ensures the pasta is seasoned by salting the boiling water adequately and avoids overheating the sauce to prevent separation, preserving the pesto's fresh texture and appearance. This dish can stand on its own or be enhanced with additional vegetables or proteins if desired, offering versatility for various tastes and occasions.
For proper serving, it is recommended to garnish with fresh grated Pecorino Romano cheese and serve immediately to enjoy the sauce at its best. Storing pesto and pasta separately can help maintain freshness if preparing ahead. Reheating should be done gently with added water to restore sauciness without breaking the pesto.
Ingredients
- 1 pound linguine homemade or dried
- 1/3 recipe for pesto
- Pecorino Romano cheese for garnish
- salt to taste
- black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Add the pasta to a large pot of boiling water and cook according to the package instructions. For fresh, 2-3 minutes and dry 8-10 minutes.
- Drain the pasta and add to a large bowl and place in the pesto along with a 1/3 cup of the pasta water, salt, and pepper and mix until combined.
- Garnish with fresh shredded pecorino Romano cheese and serve.
Notes
- Salt pasta water well to enhance seasoning and prevent sticking.
- Keep pesto and pasta separate if preparing a day ahead to keep flavors fresh.
- Reheat gently with a splash of hot water to maintain sauce consistency and prevent separation.
- Avoid cooking pesto in a hot pan to prevent the basil from turning oily and sauce breaking.
- Consider adding cooked vegetables or protein to vary the dish's flavor and texture.
Nutrition Information
Show DetailsNutrition Facts
Serving: 4Serving
Amount Per Serving
Calories 501 kcal
% Daily Value*
| Calories | 501kcal | 25% |
| Carbohydrates | 86g | 29% |
| Protein | 16g | 32% |
| Fat | 9g | 14% |
| Saturated Fat | 2g | 10% |
| Cholesterol | 2mg | 1% |
| Sodium | 200mg | 8% |
| Potassium | 253mg | 5% |
| Fiber | 4g | 16% |
| Sugar | 4g | 8% |
| Vitamin A | 417IU | 8% |
| Calcium | 57mg | 6% |
| Iron | 2mg | 11% |
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet.