Pesto Penne Pasta is a fun and tasty dish that brings together chewy penne pasta and vibrant green pesto. It’s quick to make, perfect for busy days when you want something delicious!
This pasta is like a hug for your taste buds! I love adding some cherry tomatoes and mozzarella for an extra burst of flavor. A sprinkle of parmesan on top makes everything even better!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Penne Pasta: This dish calls for penne, which holds the pesto well. If you don’t have it, you can use rotini or fusilli. These shapes will work just as nicely since they catch the sauce!
Fresh Basil: Fresh basil is crucial for flavor. If you’re out, try using spinach or arugula for a different twist. Just remember that the taste will change a bit, but it will still be good!
Pine Nuts: Pine nuts give a lovely nutty flavor, but they can be pricey. Cashews or walnuts can be used as substitutes. You could also skip nuts altogether if you have nut allergies!
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan is best for this dish. If you can’t find it, Pecorino Romano is a great alternative. Nutritional yeast is also a fantastic option for a dairy-free version!
How Do I Make Creamy Pesto without Over-Processing?
Getting the right texture for pesto is important. You don’t want it too smooth; a little chunkiness adds character. Here’s how to do it:
- Start by pulsing basil, nuts, and garlic until chopped, but not mushy.
- When adding olive oil, do it slowly with the processor running, but stop when it’s still chunky.
- After mixing in the cheese, give it a few quick pulses just to combine.
This way, the pesto retains a great texture, balancing all the flavors beautifully!
How to Make Pesto Penne Pasta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 12 oz (340 g) penne pasta
- 2 cups fresh basil leaves, packed
- 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/3 cup pine nuts
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1/2 cup extra-virgin olive oil
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved (optional)
- Extra Parmesan for garnish
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
The total time to make this delicious Pesto Penne Pasta is about 20 minutes! This includes around 10 minutes for cooking the pasta and about 10 minutes to prepare the pesto and combine everything. It’s a quick meal that’s perfect for busy days!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Penne Pasta:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once boiling, add the penne pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. This usually takes about 8-10 minutes. After it’s cooked, drain the pasta, but don’t forget to reserve about 1/4 cup of the pasta water for later!
2. Prepare the Pesto:
While the pasta is cooking, it’s time to make the pesto! In a food processor, add the fresh basil leaves, pine nuts, and minced garlic. Pulse until everything is finely chopped. Don’t worry if it’s not perfectly smooth—some texture adds to the flavor!
3. Mix the Pesto Ingredients:
With the food processor still running, slowly drizzle in the olive oil. Keep blending until the mixture is smooth. Then, add the grated Parmesan cheese and pulse it a few times to mix everything together. Season with salt and pepper to taste. If you like it creamier, you can add more olive oil!
4. Combine Pasta and Pesto:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the hot pasta with the freshly made pesto. Make sure to toss it around so that every piece of pasta is coated in that delicious green sauce. If the sauce is too thick, slowly add a bit of the reserved pasta water until you reach the desired consistency.
5. Add the Finishing Touches:
If you’re using cherry tomatoes, gently fold them into the pasta. This adds a nice sweetness and color! Then, serve the pasta immediately, garnished with extra cheese and fresh basil leaves for a lovely touch.
Enjoy your fresh, flavorful Pesto Penne Pasta!
Can I Use Store-Bought Pesto Instead?
Absolutely! If you’re short on time, store-bought pesto can be a great substitute. Just toss it with the pasta as directed, and adjust the seasoning to suit your taste since it might be saltier than homemade.
Can I Make This Recipe Vegan?
Yes! To make this dish vegan, simply omit the Parmesan cheese or replace it with a vegan cheese alternative or nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor without dairy.
How Do I Store Leftover Pesto Penne Pasta?
Store leftover pasta in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, add a splash of olive oil or a little water to loosen the pesto before warming it up in a pan or microwave.
Can I Add Protein to This Dish?
Definitely! Grilled chicken, shrimp, or even chickpeas can be great additions. Just cook the protein separately and mix it in with the pasta and pesto before serving for a complete meal!