Discover the vibrant, fresh flavors of authentic Italian cuisine with this easy-to-follow recipe for Fresh Pesto Genovese Pasta Sauce. This classic dish is surprisingly simple to make, delivering a burst of fresh basil, garlic, and pine nut goodness that will elevate your pasta night to new heights. Forget jarred pesto – this homemade version is far superior, packed with fresh ingredients and bursting with authentic Italian flavor. We’ll guide you through each step, ensuring a delicious and impressive result, even if you’re a beginner in the kitchen. Let’s get started on your culinary journey to Fresh Pesto Genovese Pasta perfection!
| Category | Value |
|---|---|
| Preparation Time | 15 minutes |
| Cooking Time | 15 minutes |
| Servings | 4 servings |
| Difficulty | Easy |
Nutrition per serving (approximate): Calories: 450-500, Fat: 25-30g, Protein: 10-12g, Carbohydrates: 50-60g
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Fresh Basil Leaves | 2 cups, packed |
| Pine Nuts | 1/2 cup |
| Garlic Cloves | 3 large |
| Parmesan Cheese | 1/2 cup, grated |
| Extra Virgin Olive Oil | 1/2 cup + more for drizzling |
| Salt | 1/2 teaspoon, or to taste |
| Black Pepper | 1/4 teaspoon, or to taste |
| Pasta (your favorite shape) | 1 pound |
Cooking Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add your pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente.
- While the pasta cooks, prepare the pesto. Toast the pine nuts in a dry skillet over medium heat for 2-3 minutes, or until lightly golden brown. Be careful not to burn them!
- In a food processor, combine the toasted pine nuts, basil leaves, garlic cloves, Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper.
- With the food processor running, slowly drizzle in the olive oil until a smooth paste forms. If it’s too thick, add a tablespoon or two more of olive oil.
- Once the pasta is cooked, drain it, reserving about 1/2 cup of the pasta water.
- Add the cooked pasta to the pesto sauce. Toss to coat evenly. If the sauce is too thick, add a little of the reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency. This Fresh Pesto Genovese Pasta sauce should be vibrant and flavorful!
- Serve immediately, drizzled with extra virgin olive oil and garnished with extra Parmesan cheese and fresh basil leaves. Enjoy your Fresh Pesto Genovese Pasta!
This Fresh Pesto Genovese Pasta is a celebration of fresh, simple ingredients. The vibrant green color and intense aroma of fresh basil are hallmarks of a truly authentic Pesto Genovese. Making your own pesto is incredibly rewarding; you’ll taste the difference immediately.
Serving Suggestions: This Fresh Pesto Genovese Pasta is delicious on its own, but you can also add grilled chicken, shrimp, or vegetables for a heartier meal. A sprinkle of red pepper flakes adds a nice touch of heat.
Tips & Notes: For the best flavor, use fresh, high-quality ingredients. If you don’t have a food processor, you can make the pesto by hand using a mortar and pestle. It will take a bit more effort but will be just as delicious. If your pesto is too thick, add a little more olive oil, one tablespoon at a time. The Fresh Pesto Genovese Pasta sauce will keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also freeze it for longer storage. To avoid browning, cover the surface of the pesto with a thin layer of olive oil before storing.
Enjoy your homemade Fresh Pesto Genovese Pasta! Remember, the key to a great Pesto Genovese is using the freshest ingredients possible. The vibrant, fresh flavors of this dish will become a new family favorite in no time. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different types of pasta or add your own personal touches. With its simplicity and delicious taste, this Fresh Pesto Genovese Pasta recipe is guaranteed to impress. So, gather your ingredients and prepare for a culinary adventure that will transport you to the heart of Italy!
