Homemade Basil Pesto Pasta with Freshly Made Noodles

Ingredients

In this adaptation of the original Italian dish, Mandilli de sea al pesto, we have incorporated the flavors and ingredients commonly found in Northeastern American cuisines. While the original dish uses traditional Italian pasta, we have replaced it with freshly made noodles to add a touch of Northeastern American influence. Additionally, we have adjusted the flavors of the pesto sauce to suit the Northeastern American palate, ensuring a perfect balance of taste and texture. We alse have the original recipe for Mandilli de sea al pesto, so you can check it out.

• For the pasta: For the pasta:
• 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour
• 2 large eggs 2 large eggs
• 1/2 teaspoon salt 1/2 teaspoon salt
• Water, as needed Water, as needed
• For the pesto sauce: For the pesto sauce:
• 2 cups (80g) fresh basil leaves 2 cups (80g) fresh basil leaves
• 1/4 cup (30g) pine nuts 1/4 cup (30g) pine nuts
• 2 cloves garlic 2 cloves garlic
• 1/2 cup (50g) grated Parmesan cheese 1/2 cup (50g) grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 cup (120ml) extra virgin olive oil 1/2 cup (120ml) extra virgin olive oil
• Salt, to taste Salt, to taste
• For garnish: For garnish:
• Grated Parmesan cheese Grated Parmesan cheese
• For serving: For serving:
• Garlic bread Garlic bread

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 450 kcal / 1884 KJ
• Fat: 30g (total), 6g (saturated)
• Carbohydrates: 35g (total), 2g (sugars)
• Protein: 10g
• Fiber: 3g
• Salt: 1g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour and salt for the pasta. Make a well in the center and crack the eggs into it. Gradually incorporate the flour into the eggs until a dough forms. Knead the dough for about 5 minutes until smooth and elastic. Cover with a damp cloth and let it rest for 30 minutes.
2. 2.
   Meanwhile, prepare the pesto sauce. In a food processor, combine the basil leaves, pine nuts, garlic, and grated Parmesan cheese. Pulse until coarsely chopped. With the processor running, slowly drizzle in the olive oil until the sauce is smooth and well combined. Season with salt to taste.
3. 3.
   Roll out the pasta dough into a thin sheet using a pasta machine or a rolling pin. Cut the sheet into thin strips to resemble noodles.
4. 4.
   Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta for about 2-3 minutes or until al dente. Drain the pasta, reserving a small amount of the cooking water.
5. 5.
   In a large skillet, heat a drizzle of olive oil over medium heat. Add the cooked pasta and toss it with the pesto sauce until well coated. If needed, add a splash of the reserved cooking water to loosen the sauce.
6. 6.
   Serve the pesto pasta garnished with grated Parmesan cheese and accompanied by garlic bread.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Basil leaves — Use fresh basil leaves for the best flavor. Avoid using wilted or discolored leaves.
• Pine nuts — Toast the pine nuts lightly in a dry skillet before using them in the pesto sauce to enhance their nutty flavor.
• Parmesan cheese — Grate the Parmesan cheese just before using to ensure maximum freshness and flavor.
• Garlic bread — For a delicious garlic bread, slice a baguette, spread butter mixed with minced garlic on each slice, and toast in the oven until golden brown.

Tips & Tricks

• If you don't have a pasta machine, you can roll out the dough with a rolling pin. Just make sure to roll it as thin as possible.
• To make the pesto sauce ahead of time, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Bring it to room temperature before tossing it with the cooked pasta.
• Feel free to add some cooked shrimp or grilled chicken to the pasta for an extra protein boost.
• If you prefer a smoother pesto sauce, you can blend it for a longer time in the food processor until it reaches your desired consistency.
• Leftover pesto pasta can be enjoyed cold as a refreshing pasta salad.

Serving advice

Serve the homemade basil pesto pasta hot, garnished with grated Parmesan cheese. Accompany it with warm garlic bread for a complete and satisfying meal.

Presentation advice

To enhance the presentation of the dish, twirl a portion of the pesto pasta using a fork and place it on a plate. Sprinkle some grated Parmesan cheese on top and garnish with a fresh basil leaf. Serve the garlic bread on the side for an inviting and appetizing presentation.