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Basil Pesto Farfalle W Roasted Pine Nuts Recipe

This 5-star Basil Pesto Farfalle recipe is a flavor explosion! In just 15 minutes, you'll create a vibrant pasta dish bursting with fresh basil, garlic, and Parmesan cheese. Perfectly cooked farfalle tossed in a creamy pesto, complemented by crunchy roasted pine nuts. Enjoy it hot off the stove or chilled – both are incredible! Serve as a main course with your favorite crusty bread for a truly unforgettable meal.

Prep Time 10 mins
Cook Time 20 mins
Calories 829.9 kcal
Protein 75g
Rating 5.0 (1 Reviews)
Basil Pesto Farfalle W Roasted Pine Nuts

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Recipe Author

Chef Forktionary, author of this recipe

Passionate home cook & Forktionary contributor.

Ingredients for Basil Pesto Farfalle W Roasted Pine Nuts

  • Farfalle Pasta
  • 4 cups (about 8 oz) grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 cups (packed) fresh basil leaves
  • 2 cloves garlic
  • 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil + 1 tablespoon olive oil for toasting
  • 1 cup (1 package) pine nuts
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt

How to Make Basil Pesto Farfalle W Roasted Pine Nuts

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add 1 pound of farfalle pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente.
  2. While the pasta cooks, prepare the pesto: In a food processor, combine 2 cups (about 4 oz) grated Parmesan cheese, 2 cups (packed) fresh basil leaves, 2 cloves garlic, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and 1/2 cup (1/2 package) pine nuts.
  3. With the food processor running, slowly drizzle in 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil until a smooth paste forms.
  4. Set the pesto aside.
  5. In a small skillet, toast the remaining 1/2 cup (1/2 package) pine nuts in 1 tablespoon olive oil over medium heat until golden brown and fragrant (about 3-5 minutes). Set aside.
  6. Once the pasta is cooked, drain it, reserving about 1/2 cup of the pasta water.
  7. Add the pesto to the drained pasta. If the mixture is too thick, add a little reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency.
  8. Stir in the toasted pine nuts and the remaining 2 cups (about 4 oz) grated Parmesan cheese.
  9. Serve immediately, warm or cold, alongside crusty bread.

Chef's Tip for Extra Flavor

Want to unlock deeper, more complex flavors? Try toasting your whole spices before grinding them, or blooming ground spices in a little warm oil to enhance their aroma. Deglazing your pan with a bit of stock, wine, or even water after browning ingredients can capture those tasty caramelized bits, adding richness to your dish.

Nutrition Information (Approximate per serving)

Sodium

42 g

Sugar

10g

Fat

74g

Carbs

20g

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30 Minutes Or Less Time To Make Course Main Ingredient Cuisine Preparation Occasion Angolan Main Dish Eggs Dairy Fruit Pasta African Easy European Beginner Cook Dinner Party Vegetarian Italian Nuts Cheese Food Processor Blender Dietary One Dish Meal High Calcium High Protein High In Something Pasta Rice And Grains Equipment Small Appliance Presentation Served Cold Served Hot