How do I make a flavorful pesto genovese pasta?

Image showing the final output answering the question: How do I make a flavorful Pesto Genovese pasta.

Get ready to experience a burst of Italian flavor with our delicious Pesto Genovese pasta recipe. Fresh basil and cheesy goodness await you!

You'll need

Items needed to answer the question, How do I make a flavorful Pesto Genovese pasta. Items include:  Fresh basil leaves  Pine nuts  Grated Parmesan cheese  Cloves of garlic  Salt  Extra-virgin olive oil  Pasta
  • Fresh basil leaves 1 medium-sized bunch
  • Pine nuts 1/4 cup
  • Grated Parmesan cheese 1/2 cup
  • Cloves of garlic 2
  • Salt pinch
  • Extra-virgin olive oil 1/2 cup
  • Pasta 1 pound

Take note
Be careful not to over blend the basil as it can turn bitter. And don't forget to taste test along the way to adjust the seasonings to your liking!

1

Prep the basil leaves

Pluck the leaves from a medium-sized bunch of fresh basil, discarding the stems.

2

Toast the pine nuts

In a dry skillet over medium heat, toast 1/4 cup of pine nuts until they turn golden brown. Set aside to cool.

3

Blend the ingredients

In a food processor, combine the basil leaves, 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese, 1/3 cup of pine nuts, 2 cloves of garlic, and a pinch of salt. Blend until a smooth paste forms.

4

Add the olive oil

With the food processor running, slowly drizzle in 1/2 cup of extra-virgin olive oil. Continue blending until the pesto reaches your desired consistency.

5

Cook the pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add 1 pound of your favorite pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain, reserving a little pasta water.

6

Mix the pasta and pesto

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta with the pesto sauce. Toss well to evenly coat the pasta.

7

Serve and enjoy

Divide the Pesto Genovese pasta into bowls and sprinkle with extra Parmesan cheese. Serve immediately and savor the burst of flavor!