Trofie al Pesto: Classic Italian Pasta Dish

Name: Trofie al Pesto: Classic Italian Pasta Dish
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 2 cups fresh basil leaves (packed); 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese (freshly grated); 1/3 cup pine nuts; 2 cloves garlic (minced); 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1/8 teaspoon black pepper (freshly ground); 400 grams trofie pasta (or similar pasta shape)

35 min 4 servings Medium

All Recipes

Indulge in the authentic flavours of Italy with this Trofie al Pesto, a simple yet delicious pasta dish featuring homemade pesto sauce.

Prep

20 min

Cook

15 min

Total

35 min

Servings

Difficulty

Medium

Trofie al Pesto is a traditional Italian pasta dish originating from the Liguria region, known for its distinctive twisted pasta shape and rich, aromatic pesto sauce. This dish is perfect for those who cherish simple yet flavourful meals that transport you to the sunny coasts of Italy. Our version of Trofie al Pesto combines homemade pesto made with fresh basil, pine nuts, garlic, and Parmesan cheese, creating a creamy and fragrant sauce. The trofie pasta, with its unique shape, holds the pesto beautifully, ensuring every bite is packed with flavour. Whether you're new to Italian cooking or an experienced pasta lover, this recipe is sure to delight.

Instructions

Prepare the pesto

In a food processor, combine basil leaves, Parmesan cheese, pine nuts, and garlic. Pulse until finely chopped.

Pro tip: Scrape down the sides of the processor bowl to ensure even blending.

Add the olive oil

With the processor running, slowly add olive oil in a steady stream until the mixture is smooth.

Pro tip: For a creamier texture, add a bit more olive oil.

Season the pesto

Season the pesto with salt and black pepper to taste. Adjust seasoning as needed.

Cook the pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add trofie pasta and cook for 10-12 minutes, or until al dente.

Pro tip: Stir occasionally to prevent pasta from sticking.

Combine pasta and pesto

Drain the pasta, reserving 1/2 cup of the pasta water. Return pasta to the pot and add pesto sauce, tossing to coat.

Pro tip: Use reserved pasta water to thin out the sauce if needed.

Serve

Divide pasta among serving plates. Garnish with additional Parmesan cheese and serve immediately.

Pro tip: Serve with a sprinkle of freshly ground black pepper for extra flavour.

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Tips & Tricks

Use fresh basil for a vibrant pesto.
Use a food processor to save time on pesto.
Cook pasta al dente for the best texture.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Trofie al Pesto?

Trofie al Pesto is a traditional Italian pasta dish featuring trofie pasta tossed with a fresh basil pesto sauce.

Can I use a different pasta for Trofie al Pesto?

Yes, you can substitute trofie with other short pasta shapes like fusilli or gemelli if trofie is unavailable.

How long does it take to make Trofie al Pesto?

It takes about 35 minutes in total, including preparation and cooking time.

How many calories are in a serving of Trofie al Pesto?

Each serving of Trofie al Pesto contains approximately 520 calories.

Can I make the pesto sauce ahead of time?

Yes, you can make the pesto sauce ahead and store it in the refrigerator for up to three days.

Is Trofie al Pesto a vegetarian dish?

Yes, Trofie al Pesto is a vegetarian dish, as it contains no meat or fish.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Trofie al Pesto alongside a crisp green salad and a glass of white wine for a complete Italian meal. This dish pairs wonderfully with grilled chicken or fish if you're looking to add some protein. You can prepare the pesto sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to three days, making it a convenient option for busy weeknights. Any leftover pasta can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two days.