Perfectly Balanced Pasta with Pesto

Looking for a dish that is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients? Then you’ve come to the right place! In this article, we will guide you through making a Pasta with Pesto, a meal that will satisfy your taste buds and nourish your body. This recipe is simple yet flavorful, offering an array of health benefits while taking minimal time in the kitchen.

Ingredients for 4 servings

• 1 pound (450 grams) of whole wheat pasta
• 3 cups fresh basil leaves
• 1/4 cup pine nuts
• 1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

The cooking process for this dish is straightforward, taking approximately 25 minutes from start to finish. Here’s a step-by-step guide:

Preparation Time: 10 minutes

• Begin by bringing a large pot of water to a boil and salt it well. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente, usually around 7-8 minutes.
• In the meantime, prepare the pesto sauce by blending the basil leaves with pine nuts, Parmesan cheese, olive oil, salt, and pepper in a food processor or mortar and pestle.

Cooking Time: 15 minutes (including pasta)

• Once the pasta is done, strain it well and return it to the pot. Add the pesto sauce and toss everything together until the pasta is evenly coated with the aromatic pesto.
• Serve immediately, garnished with additional cheese if desired.

Nutritional Value per Serving

This dish provides a great balance of carbohydrates, proteins, fats, vitamins, and minerals. Each serving contains approximately:

• 45 grams of total carbs
• 10 grams of fiber
• 6 grams of protein
• 25 grams of fat, with 8 grams being unsaturated fatty acids which are beneficial for heart health.

Tips and Variations

To enhance the taste further or to cater to different dietary preferences, here are a few tips and variations:

• For a creamier version: Add half-and-half or heavy cream into the pesto mixture while blending for extra richness.
• Chef’s Tip: Use fresh basil instead of dried as it imparts a richer flavor. Make sure to use only about 1-2 cups depending on how intense you want your pesto to be.
• Vegetarian/Vegan Option: Substitute the Parmesan cheese with nutritional yeast or vegan alternatives like Daiya for those who follow a plant-based diet.

Why You Should Try This Recipe?

This Pasta with Pesto is not only simple to prepare but also versatile. It can be enjoyed as an everyday meal, perfect for busy weeknights when you want something satisfying yet quick. Alternatively, it makes a fantastic side dish at family gatherings or casual dinners where its freshness and simplicity will impress guests.

The combination of whole wheat pasta, fresh herbs, and wholesome ingredients like pine nuts creates a balanced meal that supports heart health due to the omega-3 fatty acids found in olive oil. Moreover, the fiber content aids digestion, making it a healthy choice for individuals aiming to maintain or improve their diet quality.

Conclusion

With just 15 minutes of active cooking time and using simple ingredients you likely already have on hand, you can whip up this delightful dish. Whether enjoyed alone or paired with some grilled chicken or fish, Pasta with Pesto offers both a culinary treat and nutritional benefits that will keep your family coming back for more.

To conclude, incorporating such dishes into your weekly meal plan is a step towards healthier eating habits without sacrificing flavor. Experiment with different herbs or add some protein to make it a complete meal. Happy cooking!