Pasta Pesto
Penne with chicken, mushrooms, pesto, cherry tomatoes, spinach and pine nuts
Nutrition Facts
* The % Daily Value (DV) tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.
Pesto's origins trace back to ancient Roman times, with variations of herb and cheese pastes. The modern pesto, *pesto alla Genovese*, originated in Genoa, Liguria, Italy, likely evolving from *agliata*, a garlic-based sauce. Adding cherry tomatoes and parmesan is a common, more recent variation, adding freshness and richer flavor, respectively.
Pasta, especially pesto, is a staple of Italian cuisine and family meals. It often represents simplicity, fresh ingredients, and a celebration of regional flavors.
Regional Variations
While *pesto alla Genovese* is the classic version, variations exist throughout Italy, often incorporating different nuts (walnuts, almonds), cheeses (pecorino), and herbs (mint, parsley).
Family Meals
Pasta dishes like pesto are frequently served as part of a larger family meal, often as a *primo piatto* (first course) before the main course.
Celebration of Freshness
The dish emphasizes the use of fresh, high-quality ingredients, reflecting the Italian culinary philosophy of simple preparations that highlight the natural flavors of the ingredients.
This dish offers a vibrant and fresh flavor profile, characterized by herbaceous basil, nutty pine nuts, creamy garlic, salty Parmesan cheese, and the bright acidity of cherry tomatoes.
The pesto itself provides a complex interplay of flavors: the sweet and aromatic basil is balanced by the pungent garlic and salty Parmesan. Pine nuts contribute a subtle nutty richness, while olive oil creates a smooth and emulsified sauce. The addition of cherry tomatoes introduces a burst of sweetness and acidity that cuts through the richness of the pesto, creating a more balanced dish. Parmesan cheese, grated on top, adds an extra layer of salty, umami flavor.
Use Fresh Ingredients
Fresh basil is crucial for authentic pesto. Look for vibrant green leaves with no signs of wilting. Using high quality olive oil and fresh cherry tomatoes will also elevate the dish.
Toast the Pine Nuts
Toasting the pine nuts before adding them to the pesto enhances their nutty flavor and adds a pleasant textural element. Be careful not to burn them.
Emulsify the Sauce
Add a small amount of pasta water to the pesto to create a creamy and emulsified sauce that clings to the pasta. This will prevent the pesto from being too thick and clumpy.
Salt your pasta water
The water should be as salty as the sea. This helps to flavor the pasta from the inside out.
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