Easy Basil Pesto Pasta – Authentic Italian Recipe

Ingredients for Basil pesto pasta (Serves 4)

For the Pesto:

• 2 cups (50g) fresh basil leaves
• 2 tablespoons pine nuts (or walnuts as an alternative)
• 2 garlic cloves, peeled
• 1/2 cup (120ml) extra virgin olive oil
• 1/2 cup (50g) grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt to taste

For the Pasta:

• 400g pasta (trofie, linguine, or spaghetti work well)
• Salt for boiling water
• Optional: 1-2 tablespoons of pasta cooking water to adjust pesto consistency

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Instructions

1. Prepare the Basil Pesto

1. In a food processor or blender, combine the basil leaves, pine nuts, and garlic cloves. Pulse until finely chopped.
2. With the processor running, gradually pour in the olive oil until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
3. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and season with salt to taste. Set aside.

2. Cook the Pasta

• Boil a large pot of salted water.
• Cook the pasta al dente according to the package instructions.
• Reserve 1-2 tablespoons of pasta water before draining.

3.Combine & Serve:

oss the drained pasta with the pesto sauce.

Add a little reserved pasta water to create a creamy texture.

Serve with extra grated cheese and a drizzle of olive oil.