Are you ready to elevate your weeknight dinner with a dish that’s bursting with flavor and texture? Look no further than this delightful Pesto Pasta with Pine Nut Breadcrumbs! In just 25 minutes, you can whip up a plate of Italian goodness that combines al dente pasta, vibrant basil pesto, and a crunchy topping that will have your taste buds dancing. Whether you’re cooking for family or impressing guests, this recipe is sure to be a showstopper. Keep reading to discover the secrets behind this irresistible meal that’s as easy to make as it is delicious!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 15 mins
Total Time: 25 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 300g pasta of choice
- 1 cup basil pesto
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup pine nuts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Grated Parmesan for serving
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. The water should taste like seawater to properly season the pasta.
- Add the pasta to the boiling water and cook according to package instructions until al dente, typically 8-10 minutes depending on the pasta shape. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta cooking water before draining.
- While the pasta cooks, toast pine nuts in a dry skillet over medium heat until golden brown and fragrant, stirring constantly to prevent burning. This should take about 3-4 minutes. Remove and set aside.
- In the same skillet, heat olive oil and add breadcrumbs. Toast until golden and crispy, stirring frequently to ensure even browning, approximately 2-3 minutes.
- Mix the toasted pine nuts into the breadcrumbs and season with a pinch of salt and freshly ground black pepper. Remove from heat and set aside.
- Drain the cooked pasta and return it to the pot. Add the basil pesto and gently toss to coat evenly. If the sauce seems too thick, add reserved pasta water a little at a time to reach desired consistency.
- Transfer the pesto pasta to serving plates and generously sprinkle the pine nut breadcrumbs over the top.
- Finish with a generous grating of Parmesan cheese and serve immediately while warm.
Tips
- Choose the Right Pasta: While any pasta will work, opt for shapes like fusilli or penne that hold onto the pesto beautifully.
- Perfectly Salted Water: Make sure your pasta water is well-salted; it should taste like seawater. This is your chance to infuse flavor into the pasta itself!
- Toast the Pine Nuts: Keep a close eye on the pine nuts as they toast; they can go from perfectly golden to burnt in a matter of seconds. Stir continuously for the best results.
- Breadcrumbs with a Twist: For an extra kick, consider adding minced garlic or a pinch of red pepper flakes to the breadcrumbs while toasting for added flavor.
- Adjusting the Sauce: If your pesto seems too thick after mixing with the pasta, don’t hesitate to add a splash of the reserved pasta water to achieve your desired consistency.
- Serving Suggestions: Pair this dish with a simple side salad or garlic bread for a complete Italian feast. And don’t forget the grated Parmesan on top for that finishing touch!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 1050kcal
Carbohydrates: 98g
Protein: 26g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 10mg
