Pesto Pasta Recipe

 Indulge in the flavors of Italy with our classic Pesto Pasta recipe!

INTRODUCTION: This timeless dish is a masterclass in simplicity, combining the vibrant taste of freshly made pesto sauce with al dente pasta, creamy Parmesan cheese, and a sprinkle of basil leaves. Our recipe is a perfect blend of traditional Italian flavors, with a hint of garlic and a drizzle of olive oil.

Whether you're a pasta aficionado or a busy home cook, this recipe is a must-try. It's quick, easy, and packed with nutrients, making it a great option for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. So, let's get started and transport your taste buds to the Tuscan countryside!

Accurate measurements and ingredients 

Ingredients:

- 8 oz (225g) pasta of your choice (e.g., spaghetti, linguine, or fettuccine)

- 1/3 cup (80g) freshly made pesto sauce (see below)

- 1/4 cup (30g) grated Parmesan cheese

- 1/4 cup (15g) chopped fresh basil leaves

- Salt and pepper, to taste

- 1 tablespoon (15ml) extra virgin olive oil

Pesto Sauce:

- 2 cups (40g) fresh basil leaves

- 1/3 cup (80g) pine nuts (or walnuts)

- 1/2 cup (120g) grated Parmesan cheese

- 1/2 cup (120ml) extra virgin olive oil

- 2 cloves garlic, peeled and minced

- Salt, to taste

Instructions:

1. Cook pasta al dente, then drain and set aside.

2. In a food processor, combine basil, pine nuts, Parmesan, and garlic. Process until well combined.

3. With the processor running, slowly pour in olive oil through the top. Season with salt.

4. In a large bowl, combine cooked pasta, pesto sauce, and Parmesan cheese. Toss to coat.

5. Sprinkle with basil leaves and serve with a drizzle of olive oil.

Enjoy your delicious Pesto Pasta!

The estimated nutrition information per serving for the Pesto Pasta recipe:

_Serving size:_ 1 serving (assuming 4 servings total)

_Nutrition Facts:_

- _Calories:_ 420

- _Total Fat:_ 24g

    - Saturated Fat: 4g

    - Trans Fat: 0g

- _Cholesterol:_ 10mg

- _Sodium:_ 350mg

- _Total Carbohydrates:_ 40g

    - Dietary Fiber: 4g

    - Sugars: 4g

- _Protein:_ 15g

_Vitamin and Mineral Information:_

- _Vitamin A:_ 20% of the Daily Value (DV)

- _Vitamin C:_ 20% of the DV

- _Calcium:_ 20% of the DV

- _Iron:_ 15% of the DV

- _Potassium:_ 15% of the DV

_Macro Breakdown:_

- Carbohydrates: 45%

- Protein: 15%

- Fat: 40%

_Note:_ Nutrition information is an estimate and may vary based on specific ingredient brands and measurements.

Assuming the recipe yields 4 servings, the nutrition information is based on a serving size of 1 serving (about 1 cup or 3 oz/85g of pesto pasta). Pesto pasta is a nutrient-rich dish, with healthy fats from olive oil and pesto, complex carbohydrates from pasta, and protein from Parmesan cheese. Enjoy in moderation as part of a balanced diet.