Pesto Pasta

 🍃 Classic Pesto Pasta Recipe

Pesto paste is a rich, flavorful sauce traditionally made from fresh basil, garlic, pine nuts, Parmesan cheese, and olive oil. It's blended into a thick, aromatic paste that's perfect for tossing with pasta, spreading on sandwiches, or using as a dip. Fresh and vibrant, pesto brings a burst of Mediterranean flavor to any dish.
                                                            

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Ingredients:

• 1 lb (450g) pasta (penne, spaghetti, or linguine work great)
• 2 cups fresh basil leaves
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/3 cup pine nuts (or walnuts if you want a cheaper option)
• 2 garlic cloves
• 1/2 cup olive oil
• Salt & pepper to taste

Optional: cherry tomatoes or grilled chicken for toppings

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Instructions:

• Cook the Pasta: Boil your pasta in salted water until al dente, then drain and set aside.
• Make the Pesto: In a food processor, blend basil, Parmesan, pine nuts, and garlic.
  While blending, slowly drizzle in the olive oil until it becomes a smooth sauce. Season with salt and pepper.
• Mix: Toss the hot pasta with the pesto sauce right away. The heat helps release the flavors.
• Serve: Garnish with extra cheese, a few pine nuts, or some cherry tomatoes if you like a fresh touch.

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Would you like a spicier pasta next or maybe something baked like lasagna?