Pesto Penne Pasta

Discover the joy of a swift and delightful pesto penne pasta – a light and uncomplicated Italian creation that comes together with just five ingredients in under 15 minutes. Cooked pasta springs to life as it dances with vibrant pesto, plump cherry tomatoes, and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese. This dish is a true gem for a hassle-free weeknight dinner. And guess what? Any leftovers get a new lease on life when enjoyed cold as a refreshing pasta salad for a delightful lunch the next day.

Let’s talk about simplicity and speed – pesto penne pasta takes the crown in both categories. It’s practically a magic trick in the kitchen, and it’s one of those recipes you’ll pull out time and again when time is short. And hey, if you’re all about keeping it fast and fabulous, you’ll also adore these pasta wonders that boast prep and cook times of less than 20 minutes: the timeless Spaghetti Carbonara, the Avocado Basil Pesto Spaghetti, the comforting Stovetop Mac and Cheese with White Cheddar, and the luxurious Shrimp Fettuccine Alfredo Pasta Bake.

So, let’s embrace the beauty of simplicity with pesto penne pasta. A culinary masterpiece that proves the magic of cooking can happen in a jiffy. The result? A plate of pasta that’s a symphony of Flavors and textures, perfect for a relaxed dinner. And the bonus? It transforms into a refreshing pasta salad that’s ready to shine in your lunchbox the next day.

Recipe Video:

Tools for this recipe:

1. Garlic Press
2. Wire whisk
3. a big pot
4. Sharp knife
5. bowl
6. skillet
7. kitchen tongs

Ingredients and Instructions of Pesto Penne Pasta :

Ingredients:

1. 12 ounces (340g) penne pasta
2. 2 cups (80g) fresh basil leaves, packed
3. 1/2 cup (50g) grated Parmesan cheese
4. 1/3 cup pine nuts or walnuts (40g)
5. 2-3 cloves of garlic, peeled
6. 1/2 cup (120ml) extra-virgin olive oil
7. 1/2 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
8. 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
9. 1/2 cup (60g) cherry tomatoes, halved
10. Optional: 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (for a kick)
11. Grated Parmesan cheese for serving

Instructions:

Step 1: Boil the Pasta

• Bring a big pan of water to a boil over high heat.
• Add generous pinch to the boiling water.
• Cook the penne pasta according to package directions until it is al dente.
• Cook the pasta and side it.

Step 2: Prepare the Pesto

• In a food processor, combine the fresh basil, grated Parmesan cheese, pine nuts or walnuts, peeled garlic cloves, salt, and black pepper.
• Pulse the ingredients a few times until they’re coarsely chopped.

Step 3: Add the Olive Oil

• With the food processor running, slowly drizzle in the extra-virgin olive oil.
• Blend until the mixture is smooth and thoroughly blended.
• If you want a bit of heat, you can also add the red pepper flakes at this point.

Step 4: Combine Pasta and Pesto

• In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked penne pasta and the      prepared pesto.
• Toss the pasta gently to ensure it’s evenly coated with the pesto.

Step 5: Add Freshness

• Gently fold in the halved cherry tomatoes. Their juicy sweetness will add a burst of flavor.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

• Portion the Pesto Penne Pasta onto plates.
• If desired, sprinkle some extra grated Parmesan cheese on top for an added Savory touch.

Step 7: Savor the Moment

• Take a moment to appreciate the vibrant colors and inviting aroma of your Pesto Penne Pasta.
• Each forkful combines the earthiness of basil, the creaminess of   Parmesan, and the nutty richness of pine nuts.

This Pesto Penne Pasta is an ode to simple elegance. Its fresh and vibrant Flavors are a testament to how a handful of quality ingredients can create a delightful and memorable dish. Enjoy it as a satisfying meal on its own or as a lovely side paired with your favorite protein.

Nutrition Facts of Pesto Penne Pasta(Per Serving):

Note: Nutritional values are estimated and can vary based on the specific brands and quantities of ingredients used.

Health Benefits of Pesto Penne Pasta:

1. Rich in Antioxidants: Basil is packed with antioxidants that protect against cell damage.
2. Heart-Healthy Fats: Olive oil and pine nuts provide monounsaturated fats that support cardiovascular health.
3. Boosts Energy: Pasta provides complex carbohydrates for sustained energy.
4. Immune Support: Garlic and cherry tomatoes contribute vitamin C and other immune-boosting compounds.
5. Bone Health: Parmesan cheese is rich in calcium, essential for strong bones.
6. Digestive Health: High fiber from cherry tomatoes and basil aids digestion.
7. Anti-Inflammatory Properties: Basil and olive oil contain compounds that reduce inflammation.
8. Eye Health: Cherry tomatoes are a great source of vitamin A and lycopene, supporting vision.
9. Muscle Recovery: Protein from Parmesan and the nuts aids muscle repair.
10. Improved Mood: The aroma and natural compounds in basil may help reduce stress and elevate mood.

Storage Instructions:

• Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Keep any extra pesto in a separate container to add freshness when reheating.
• Freezing: Freeze pesto in an ice cube tray for up to 3 months. Combine it with freshly cooked pasta when ready to serve.

Reheat and Reuse Instructions:

Reheating:

• Stovetop: Heat a non-stick pan on low, add the pasta, and stir gently until warm. Add a splash of olive oil or water to refresh the pesto sauce.
• Microwave: Place the pasta in a microwave-safe dish, cover loosely, and heat on medium for 1–2 minutes. Stir halfway through for even heating.

Reuse Ideas:

• Pasta Salad: Enjoy the dish cold the next day as a refreshing pasta salad.
• Wrap Filling: Use the pesto pasta as a flavorful filling for wraps or sandwiches.
• Soup Add-On: Add to a light vegetable soup for extra heartiness.
• Baked Casserole: Mix with additional cheese and bake for a quick pesto pasta bake.

FAQ’s

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