Pasta with Pesto and Asparagus is a delicious and satisfying dish that combines the flavors of fresh pasta, homemade pesto, and tender asparagus. This recipe is a perfect choice for a quick and easy weeknight dinner or a special occasion meal.
With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can create a flavorful pasta dish that will impress your family and friends.
Ingredients
To make Pasta with Pesto and Asparagus, you will need the following ingredients:.
For the pesto:
– 2 cups fresh basil leaves.
– 1/2 cup pine nuts.
– 2 cloves of garlic.
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese.
– 1/2 cup extra-virgin olive oil.
– Salt and pepper to taste.
For the pasta:
– 8 ounces of your favorite pasta.
– 1 bunch of asparagus, trimmed and cut into bite-sized pieces.
– Salt for boiling water.
Instructions
Follow these steps to prepare Pasta with Pesto and Asparagus:.
Step 1: Prepare the Pesto
1. In a food processor or blender, combine the basil leaves, pine nuts, garlic, and Parmesan cheese. Pulse several times until the mixture is coarsely chopped.
2. With the processor running, slowly drizzle in the olive oil until the pesto reaches a smooth and creamy consistency.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Set aside.
Step 2: Cook the Pasta
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente.
2. Drain the pasta, reserving about 1/2 cup of the pasta cooking water.
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Step 3: Prepare the Asparagus
1. In a separate pot, bring water to a boil and add a pinch of salt. Add the asparagus and cook for 3-4 minutes until tender-crisp. Drain the asparagus and set aside.
Step 4: Combine the Ingredients
1. In a large skillet, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the cooked asparagus and sauté for a few minutes until slightly browned.
2. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the asparagus and toss to combine.
3. Gradually add the reserved pasta cooking water, a few tablespoons at a time, until the pasta is coated with a thin, silky sauce.
4. Stir in the pesto, reserving a spoonful for garnish.
5. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the pasta is heated through and coated evenly with the pesto.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
1. Transfer the Pasta with Pesto and Asparagus to individual plates or a serving platter.
2. Drizzle the reserved pesto on top for added flavor and garnish with a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese if desired.
3. Serve immediately and enjoy!.
Tips and Variations
Here are some tips and variations to enhance your Pasta with Pesto and Asparagus:.
1. Use Fresh Ingredients
For the best flavor, it’s recommended to use fresh basil leaves, garlic cloves, and Parmesan cheese. The fresh ingredients will make a noticeable difference in the taste of your pesto and pasta.
2. Customize the Pesto
Feel free to adjust the pesto recipe to your liking. You can add more garlic for extra zing or reduce the amount of Parmesan cheese if you prefer a lighter pesto flavor.
3. Add Protein
If you’re craving a protein-packed meal, you can add cooked chicken, shrimp, or grilled tofu to the pasta and asparagus mixture. This will transform the dish into a heartier and more filling option.
4. Play with Pasta Shapes
While any pasta shape will work for this recipe, it’s fun to experiment with different types. Choose a shape that holds onto the pesto and complements the texture of the asparagus, such as fusilli or penne.
5. Substitute Asparagus
If asparagus is not in season or not available, you can substitute it with other green vegetables like broccoli, zucchini, or green beans. Adjust the cooking time accordingly to ensure your chosen vegetable is cooked to perfection.
Conclusion
Pasta with Pesto and Asparagus is a delightful combination of flavors and textures that will please your taste buds. This recipe delivers a simple yet scrumptious meal that can be enjoyed year-round.
Whether you’re cooking for yourself or a group of loved ones, this pasta dish is sure to be a hit. Try it today and savor the deliciousness!.
