Pesto is a delicious and versatile sauce that originates from Italy. Traditionally made with fresh basil, garlic, pine nuts, Parmesan cheese, and olive oil, pesto has become a staple in many cuisines around the world.
In this recipe, we will explore a unique twist on pesto by adding sweet peppers, ricotta, and oregano, resulting in a flavorful and creamy sauce.
Ingredients
Before we dive into the recipe, let’s gather all the ingredients needed:.
- 2 cups fresh basil
- 1 cup sweet peppers
- 1/2 cup ricotta cheese
- 2 cloves garlic
- 1/4 cup pine nuts
- 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tablespoon fresh oregano leaves
- Salt and pepper to taste
Preparation
Now that we have all our ingredients ready, let’s get started with the preparation!.
Step 1: Roasting the Sweet Peppers
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the sweet peppers on a baking tray and drizzle with olive oil. Season with salt and pepper. Roast the peppers in the preheated oven for about 20 minutes or until they are soft and slightly charred.
Step 2: Toasting the Pine Nuts
In a dry skillet, toast the pine nuts over medium heat until they turn golden brown. Make sure to keep an eye on them as they can quickly burn. Once toasted, remove from heat and set aside.
Step 3: Blending the Ingredients
In a food processor or blender, combine the basil, roasted sweet peppers, ricotta cheese, garlic, toasted pine nuts, Parmesan cheese, and fresh oregano leaves. Pulse the mixture until it forms a smooth paste.
Step 4: Adding the Olive Oil
With the food processor or blender running, slowly drizzle in the olive oil until the pesto reaches your desired consistency. You may need to add more or less olive oil depending on how thick or thin you prefer your pesto.
Step 5: Seasoning to Taste
Taste the pesto and add salt and pepper according to your preference. Adjust the seasoning as needed until you achieve the desired flavor.
Serving Suggestions
Pesto with sweet peppers, ricotta, and oregano can be used in various ways to enhance your dishes. Here are a few serving suggestions:.
- Toss the pesto with your favorite cooked pasta for a quick and delicious meal.
- Spread the pesto onto toasted baguette slices and top with fresh tomatoes and mozzarella for a delightful bruschetta.
- Use the pesto as a marinade for grilled chicken or fish to add a burst of flavor.
- Mix a spoonful of pesto into creamy scrambled eggs for a gourmet breakfast.
- Add the pesto to roasted vegetables for a vibrant and tasty side dish.
Conclusion
Now you have a wonderful recipe for pesto with sweet peppers, ricotta, and oregano. This flavorful and creamy sauce is versatile and can elevate a wide range of dishes.
Get creative with your cooking and enjoy the delightful taste of this unique twist on traditional pesto!.