Imagine twirling your fork into a plate of perfectly cooked penne, each tube generously coated with vibrant, aromatic basil pesto that whispers tales of sun-drenched Italian kitchens. This isn't just a pasta dish - it's a culinary journey that transforms simple ingredients into a symphony of flavors that will transport you straight to the heart of Italy in just 25 minutes. Get ready to impress your family and friends with a restaurant-quality meal that's astonishingly easy to prepare!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 15 mins
Total Time: 25 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 300g penne rigate
- 100g basil pesto
- 50g grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt to taste
- Pine nuts for garnish
Instructions
- Fill a large pot with water and add a generous pinch of salt. Bring the water to a rolling boil over high heat.
- Add the 300g of penne rigate pasta to the boiling water. Stir gently to prevent the pasta from sticking together.
- Cook the pasta according to package instructions, typically 10-12 minutes, until al dente. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking.
- While the pasta is cooking, prepare a large serving bowl. Add 2 tablespoons of olive oil and the 100g of basil pesto to the bowl.
- Before draining the pasta, reserve about 1/2 cup of the pasta cooking water. This starchy water will help the sauce adhere to the pasta.
- Drain the pasta in a colander, then immediately transfer it to the bowl with pesto and olive oil.
- Toss the pasta thoroughly to coat each piece with the pesto sauce. If the sauce seems too thick, add some of the reserved pasta water to create a smoother consistency.
- Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the pasta and mix gently to incorporate.
- Transfer the pasta to individual serving plates or a large serving platter.
- Garnish with toasted pine nuts and an extra sprinkle of Parmesan cheese if desired.
- Serve immediately while the pasta is hot, enjoying the fresh basil pesto and creamy Parmesan flavors.
Tips
- Always salt your pasta water generously - it should taste like the sea to properly season the pasta from within.
- Reserve pasta cooking water before draining; its starchy magic helps create a silky, clingy sauce.
- Toast your pine nuts quickly in a dry pan to enhance their nutty flavor and add a delightful crunch.
- Use fresh, high-quality basil pesto for the most authentic and vibrant taste.
- Serve immediately to enjoy the pasta at its peak temperature and texture.
- For a protein boost, consider adding grilled chicken or shrimp to the dish.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 525kcal
Carbohydrates: 61g
Protein: 18g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 20mg
