If you’re anything like me, then you’re always on the lookout for ways to create easy, delicious meals. One ingredient that can help make that happen is pesto. Whether you make it from scratch or buy it from the store, pesto is a versatile and flavorful addition to many dishes, including pasta.
Adding store-bought pesto to pasta is a quick and easy way to jazz up any pasta dish, and it requires very little effort. However, if you’ve never done it before, you might be wondering exactly how to do it. Don’t worry, though, because we’re going to walk you through the process step-by-step, so you can master this simple yet delicious recipe.
Choosing the Right Type of Pesto for Your Pasta: A Guide
When it comes to making delicious pesto pasta, choosing the right type of store-bought pesto can make a world of difference. There are several types of pesto you can find in supermarkets, including traditional basil, sun-dried tomato, and even arugula pesto.
For a classic and versatile option that pairs well with almost any type of pasta, traditional basil pesto is your best bet. If you’re in the mood for something more adventurous, the sun-dried tomato or arugula pesto can add an extra punch of flavor to your dish. Consider the flavor profile of your pasta and other ingredients when selecting your pesto to ensure that the flavors will complement each other. Ultimately, it’s up to your personal taste to decide which type of pesto works best for you and your dish.
Step-by-Step Instructions for Adding Pesto to Your Pasta
Adding store-bought pesto to pasta is a simple and quick way to make a tasty meal. Here are some step-by-step instructions to help you achieve the perfect pesto pasta.
Firstly, cook your pasta according to the package instructions. Once cooked, drain the pasta and place it back into the pot. Add a dollop of butter or olive oil to loosen the pasta and prevent it from sticking together. Next, add the desired amount of pesto to the pot and stir well to coat the pasta. If you feel the pasta is too dry, add a little bit of pasta water to create a smoother consistency. Lastly, season with salt and pepper to taste and serve immediately garnished with freshly grated parmesan cheese and chopped basil. Following these easy steps will ensure that your pesto pasta is delicious and full of flavor.
Mix-Ins and Ingredients to Enhance Your Pesto Pasta Dish
When it comes to adding mix-ins and ingredients to enhance your store-bought pesto pasta dish, the possibilities are endless. Some popular ingredients to mix in with your pesto pasta include roasted cherry tomatoes, grilled chicken, and sautéed mushrooms. These additions will give your dish a burst of flavor and texture that complements the pesto’s savory taste.
Furthermore, you can also add your favorite herbs, such as basil or oregano, to the pesto to add another layer of freshness and flavor. If you’re feeling adventurous or want to add a little heat to your dish, try adding red pepper flakes or jalapeños to the pesto sauce. Regardless of what mix-ins and ingredients you choose, they will undoubtedly take your store-bought pesto pasta to the next level.
Best Pasta Shapes for Pairing with Pesto
When it comes to pairing pasta with pesto, the choices are plenty. However, some pasta shapes are better suited for combining with pesto than others. The key is to select a shape that complements the sauce and helps it cling onto the pasta.
One of the most popular pasta shapes for pesto is spaghetti. Its long, thin strands allow the sauce to coat the pasta uniformly, creating a harmonious blend of flavors. Other options include fusilli, farfalle, penne, and rigatoni. These shapes have ridges and crevices that help trap the pesto and allow the sauce to penetrate inside the pasta. Whatever shape you decide to go with, it’s essential to cook the pasta al dente and reserve some of the starchy cooking water to thin out the pesto sauce if necessary. With the right pasta shape and the perfect pesto sauce, you can create a delicious dish that’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
Storing and Freezing Pesto for Future Use
After opening a store-bought jar of pesto, it is important to store it properly to ensure that it stays fresh for future use. One option is to transfer the pesto into an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator. This will keep the pesto fresh for up to a week, but be sure to stir it before using it again, as it may settle and thicken over time.
If you want to keep the pesto for a longer period of time, freezing it is a great option. To freeze pesto, simply transfer it into an ice cube tray. Once frozen, remove the cubes and store them in an airtight freezer bag. Frozen pesto can be stored for up to 3 months. When ready to use, simply thaw the desired amount of pesto and mix it with freshly cooked pasta. Storing and freezing pesto is a great way to always have this delicious sauce on hand for quick and easy meals.
Pesto Pasta Recipe Ideas and Variations
Pesto pasta is a versatile and easy-to-make dish that you can enjoy any time of the day. There are countless variations of this popular Italian recipe, and you can customize it to suit your taste preference. Here are some ideas and variations to try out:
If you’re looking for a classic pesto pasta recipe, simply mix your store-bought pesto with cooked pasta and grated Parmesan cheese. To add more flavor, you can also add chopped sun-dried tomatoes, roasted red peppers, or grilled chicken. You can also experiment with different pasta varieties, such as spaghetti, penne, or fusilli.
For a lighter version of pesto pasta, use zucchini noodles or spaghetti squash instead of regular pasta. This is a great option if you’re looking to reduce your carb intake or add more veggies to your diet. You can also add other vegetables, like cherry tomatoes, asparagus, or mushrooms to make the dish more colorful and flavorful. Whatever variation you choose, pesto pasta is a delicious and satisfying meal that can be enjoyed year-round.
How to Make Your Own Homemade Pesto for Your Pasta Dish
Making your own homemade pesto is a great way to add a personal touch and fresh flavor to your pasta dish. It’s not too hard to make, and you can use various ingredients to create unique flavor profiles that cater to your preferences. Here’s how to make homemade pesto for your pasta dish:
First, gather all the ingredients, including fresh basil, garlic, nuts, Parmesan cheese, and olive oil. Blend the ingredients in a food processor until it forms a smooth paste. You can adjust the consistency and taste by adding more olive oil, nuts or cheese as per taste. After this, toss the freshly cooked pasta with the pesto sauce and enjoy! Homemade pesto is a perfect addition to any pasta dish and can also be used as a dip or spread. So it’s worth the effort in making it yourself, as it is truly unbeatable in taste.
Verdict
Adding store-bought pesto to pasta is one of the easiest and quickest ways to add a ton of flavor to your meal. Whether you choose a classic basil pesto or a more unique flavor like sun-dried tomato, the process is simple and versatile. You can adjust the amount of pesto you add to create the desired taste and texture, and you can even add other ingredients like cooked vegetables or protein to make it a more filling dish.
In conclusion, adding store-bought pesto to pasta is a delicious and easy way to elevate your meal. With just a few simple steps, you can create a flavorful and satisfying dish that will be sure to please your taste buds. So the next time you’re looking for a quick and easy dinner idea, grab a jar of pesto and some pasta, and get cooking!