Pasta with pesto sauce and parmesan

Pasta with pesto sauce and parmesan: an easy and delicious recipe to start the year strong

After the festive holiday meals, where we indulged in heavier dishes, it’s time to shift our focus to a lighter yet equally flavorful option. Pasta with pesto sauce and parmesan is the perfect choice to recharge the body with energy without overloading it. This simple recipe brings a splash of freshness and vitality to the plate, being an ideal combination of flavors and textures.

Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 10 minutes
Total time: 20 minutes
Servings: 2

A bit of history

Pasta has been an integral part of cuisine throughout history, appreciated worldwide for its versatility and quick preparation. Pesto sauce, originating from a rich culinary tradition, is a perfect example of how simple ingredients can create something special. With deep roots in culinary culture, pesto has evolved into various versions, but all retain its essence of bringing together aromatic herbs, nuts, and olive oil. What makes this sauce truly unique is its combination of flavors, adding a touch of elegance to any meal.

Ingredients

For 2 servings, you will need:

- 250 grams of pasta (you can choose your favorite type, from spaghetti to spirals)
- 30 grams of grated parmesan (preferably fresh for an intense flavor)
- 2-3 tablespoons of pesto sauce (you can use classic basil pesto or a pistachio variant for an extra kick)
- 15 grams of raw pistachios, finely chopped
- 15 grams of sesame seeds
- 15 grams of pine nuts
- Fresh or dried basil, to taste
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- A pinch of chili for a touch of spice (optional)
- Optional: slices of smoked fish (e.g., trout) or cherry tomatoes for added freshness

Step by step: Preparing pasta with pesto sauce

1. Boil the pasta: In a large pot, bring water to a boil and add salt. Once the water is boiling, add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions (usually 8-10 minutes for dried pasta). It’s important to stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

2. Drain the pasta: Once the pasta is al dente, drain it in a colander, but keep a little boiling water in case you want to thin the sauce.

3. Mix with the pesto sauce: In a large bowl, add the drained pasta and pesto sauce (about a tablespoon of sauce per serving is ideal). Mix well until the pasta is evenly coated with the sauce. If the mixture is too thick, add a few tablespoons of the pasta boiling water to achieve the desired consistency.

4. Assemble the plate: Divide the pasta into two plates. Here’s your chance to be creative! Top with grated parmesan, finely chopped pistachios, sesame seeds, pine nuts, and basil. Season with salt, pepper, and a pinch of chili if you want a bit of heat.

5. Optional: If you want to add a special element, slice thin pieces of smoked fish or cherry tomatoes and add them on top of the dish. These ingredients not only add color but also a delicious taste.

Useful tips

- Pasta: Experiment with different types of pasta! Whole wheat or gluten-free pasta are excellent options for those looking to adapt their diet.
- Pesto sauce: You can make pesto sauce at home using fresh basil, garlic, parmesan, nuts (pine or cashews), and olive oil. It will be much fresher and personalized.
- Variations: Try adding roasted vegetables like zucchini or red peppers to enrich the dish even more.
- Storing leftovers: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge. The pasta can also be enjoyed cold, as a pasta salad.

Nutritional benefits

This recipe for pasta with pesto sauce and parmesan is not only tasty but also healthy. The pistachios and pine nuts provide essential fatty acids and protein, while the pesto sauce is packed with antioxidants thanks to the fresh herbs. By using whole grain pasta, you’ll benefit from additional fiber, and the parmesan offers calcium and vitamins. It’s an ideal meal to revitalize the body after the holidays without sacrificing flavor.

Delicious pairings

For an even more complete meal, you can serve the pasta with a fresh arugula and cherry tomato salad, drizzled with olive oil and balsamic vinegar. Additionally, a glass of dry white wine will pair perfectly with this dish.

Frequently asked questions

1. Can I use whole grain pasta? Yes, whole grain pasta is an excellent nutritional choice.

2. Is pesto sauce difficult to make at home? No, it’s very simple! All you need are a few basic ingredients and a blender.

3. Can I substitute parmesan? Yes, if you want a vegan option, you can use a plant-based parmesan or nutritional yeast.

4. How can I make the sauce spicier? Add more chili or a bit of hot sauce to the pesto sauce.

5. Is this recipe suitable for meal prep? Absolutely! The dish stores well in the fridge and can be eaten cold.

So, enjoy this simple yet flavorful recipe and kick off the year with a healthy and delicious meal! Pasta with pesto sauce and parmesan is not just a delight but also an inspired choice to maintain a balanced lifestyle. Enjoy your meal!