Galletti with Sun-Dried Tomato Pesto

Ingredients

• 250g (8.8 oz) galletti pasta 250g (8.8 oz) galletti pasta
• 100g (3.5 oz) sun-dried tomatoes, drained 100g (3.5 oz) sun-dried tomatoes, drained
• 2 cloves of garlic 2 cloves of garlic
• 50g (1.8 oz) pine nuts 50g (1.8 oz) pine nuts
• 50g (1.8 oz) Parmesan cheese, grated 50g (1.8 oz) Parmesan cheese, grated
• 1/4 cup (60ml) extra virgin olive oil 1/4 cup (60ml) extra virgin olive oil
• Fresh basil leaves, for garnish Fresh basil leaves, for garnish
• Salt and pepper, to taste Salt and pepper, to taste

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 450 kcal / 1884 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 25g, 5g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 45g, 5g
• Protein: 12g
• Fiber: 4g
• Salt: 1g

Preparation

1. 1.
   Cook the galletti pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. 2.
   In a food processor, combine the sun-dried tomatoes, garlic, pine nuts, and Parmesan cheese. Pulse until well combined.
3. 3.
   Gradually add the olive oil while continuing to blend until a smooth pesto consistency is achieved.
4. 4.
   Season the pesto with salt and pepper to taste.
5. 5.
   In a large mixing bowl, toss the cooked galletti pasta with the sun-dried tomato pesto until evenly coated.
6. 6.
   Serve the Galletti with Sun-Dried Tomato Pesto garnished with fresh basil leaves and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Sun-dried tomatoes — If using sun-dried tomatoes packed in oil, make sure to drain them well before blending.
• Pine nuts — Toasting the pine nuts before blending will enhance their flavor and add a subtle nuttiness to the pesto.

Tips & Tricks

• For a creamier pesto, add a splash of heavy cream or a dollop of Greek yogurt to the sauce.
• Customize the dish by adding grilled chicken or shrimp for a protein boost.
• Substitute galletti pasta with any other short pasta shape like fusilli or farfalle if desired.
• Experiment with different herbs like parsley or oregano to add a unique twist to the pesto.
• Leftover pesto can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.

Serving advice

Serve the Galletti with Sun-Dried Tomato Pesto as a main course accompanied by a fresh green salad and crusty bread. It also makes a delightful side dish for grilled meats or roasted vegetables.

Presentation advice

Plate the galletti pasta neatly on individual serving plates, ensuring that the sun-dried tomato pesto is evenly distributed. Garnish with fresh basil leaves and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese for an appealing pop of color.