Pesto Penne Pasta is a quick and tasty dish that really packs a punch! With penne pasta tossed in vibrant green pesto, it’s full of flavor and super easy to whip up for dinner.
Let’s be real, you can never have too much pesto! I often add some cherry tomatoes and grated cheese for a little extra goodness. It’s a simple dinner that feels fancy! 🍝
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Penne Pasta: This tubular pasta is great for holding onto the pesto. If you need a substitute, you could use rigatoni or fusilli. Gluten-free options, like brown rice penne, work well too!
Fresh Basil: Fresh basil is the star of this dish and gives it that lovely aroma. If you don’t have fresh basil, you can use store-bought pesto or try spinach for a different twist. While not the same, it can add a nice flavor!
Pine Nuts: These add a buttery crunch to the pesto. If pine nuts are pricey or you’re allergic, walnuts or almonds are excellent substitutes. Roasting them slightly can enhance their flavor.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan gives the best taste. You can switch to Pecorino Romano for a sharper flavor or nutritional yeast if you’re looking for a vegan option.
Cherry Tomatoes: These add freshness and a bit of sweetness. If they’re out of season, feel free to skip them, or replace with sun-dried tomatoes for a different flavor profile.
How Can I Make Perfect Pesto?
Making pesto seems tricky, but it’s straightforward! The key is to blend the ingredients just right. Here’s how you can ensure a great pesto every time:
- Start with fresh basil and make sure it’s dry; moisture can affect the blend.
- Toast the nuts lightly in a pan first to bring out their flavor. This step is optional but adds depth!
- When blending, start with the basil, nuts, and garlic first, then slowly add the olive oil while the processor runs to create a silky texture.
- Always taste and adjust! Add more cheese, nuts, or a pinch of salt to balance the flavors to your liking.
By following these tips, your pesto will be flavorful and smooth, making your pasta dish shine!
Pesto Penne Pasta
Ingredients:
- 12 oz (340 g) penne pasta
- 1 cup fresh basil leaves, packed
- 1/4 cup pine nuts (can substitute walnuts or almonds)
- 2 cloves garlic
- 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- Optional garnish: extra grated Parmesan and fresh basil leaves
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Pesto Penne Pasta recipe takes about 20-25 minutes total. You’ll spend around 10 minutes cooking the pasta and about 10-15 minutes preparing the pesto and combining everything. It’s a quick and delicious meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
First, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once boiling, add the penne pasta. Cook according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. This usually takes about 10-12 minutes. Once done, drain the pasta in a colander and set it aside.
2. Prepare the Pesto:
While the pasta cooks, let’s make the pesto! In a food processor or blender, add the fresh basil leaves, pine nuts, and garlic cloves. Pulse everything together until it’s finely chopped, but not completely smooth.
3. Add the Olive Oil:
With the food processor running, slowly drizzle in the extra virgin olive oil. Keep blending until the mixture becomes smooth and creamy. This will take about 30 seconds.
4. Mix in the Cheese:
Now, add the grated Parmesan cheese to the pesto mixture. Pulse the food processor again to combine everything perfectly. Taste the pesto and add salt and pepper according to your liking.
5. Combine Pasta and Pesto:
In a large bowl, toss the cooked and drained penne pasta with the freshly made pesto. Make sure every piece of pasta is covered in that delicious green sauce!
6. Add Cherry Tomatoes:
Gently fold in the halved cherry tomatoes. They will add a lovely burst of freshness and a pop of color to your dish.
7. Serve:
Serve your Pesto Penne Pasta immediately. For an extra touch, garnish with additional grated Parmesan cheese and fresh basil leaves. Enjoy your flavorful meal!
This vibrant and aromatic pesto penne pasta is quick to make, featuring a creamy basil pesto sauce mixed with tender pasta and bright cherry tomatoes, perfect for a delicious and fresh meal.
Can I Use Store-Bought Pesto Instead?
Absolutely! Using store-bought pesto can save time and is a great option if you’re short on fresh ingredients. Just check the label to ensure it’s a good quality; you might want to add a little extra garlic or cheese for more flavor.
How Should I Store Leftover Pesto Penne Pasta?
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm on the stovetop with a splash of water or oil to help loosen the pasta and prevent sticking.
Can I Add Other Ingredients to the Pasta?
Definitely! Feel free to customize your Pesto Penne Pasta by adding grilled chicken, sautéed vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers, or even some olives for extra flavor. Just be mindful of the cooking time for any additional ingredients!
Is This Recipe Vegan-Friendly?
Yes, you can make this dish vegan by substituting the Parmesan cheese with nutritional yeast or a vegan cheese alternative. Just replace the cheese quantity equally for the best flavor. Enjoy your plant-based version!
