Perfect Pesto Pasta

Ingredients for Perfect Pesto Pasta

• 80g pine nuts

• 2 garlic cloves, finely grated

• 90g Parmesan, grated, plus more shaved for serving

• 6 cups basil leaves (from about 3 bunches)

• 180ml extra-virgin olive oil

• 1 teaspoon kosher salt, plus more

• 350g dried long pasta

• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, cut into pieces

Preheat oven to 177°C. Toast pine nuts on a rimmed baking sheet, tossing once, until golden brown, 5–7 minutes. Transfer to a food processor and let cool, 5–7 minutes.

Add garlic and grated Parmesan to food processor and pulse until finely ground, about 1 minute. Add basil and, with the motor running, add oil in a slow and steady stream; continue to process until pesto is mostly smooth with just a few flecks of green remaining, about 1 minute. Pulse in 1 teaspoon salt.

Cook pasta in a large pot of boiling salted water, stirring occasionally, until al dente. Drain, reserving 120ml pasta cooking liquid.

Place pesto and butter in a large bowl. Add pasta and 60ml pasta cooking liquid. Toss vigorously with tongs, adding more pasta cooking liquid as needed, until pasta is glossy and well coated with sauce. Taste pasta and season with more salt if needed.

Divide pasta among bowls. Top with shaved Parmesan.

Do Ahead: Pesto can be made 1 day ahead. Pour oil over to cover by 1/4" to prevent browning. Press plastic wrap directly against surface and chill.

Disclaimer

While every effort has been made to ensure the information is accurate and up to date, individual needs may vary and dietary requirements can differ based on personal health conditions. Always check food labels and allergen information before preparing or consuming any recipe. If you have specific health concerns, allergies, intolerances, or are following a medically prescribed diet, seek advice from your GP, pharmacist, or a registered dietitian before making significant changes to your diet or lifestyle.