How do you make pesto penne pasta?

Pesto Penne Pasta: A Simple and Delicious Recipe

Yields: 4 servings

Prep time: 10 minutes

Cook time: 15 minutes

Ingredients:

* 1 pound penne pasta

* 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves

* 1/4 cup pine nuts

* 2 cloves garlic, minced

* 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

* 1/2 cup olive oil

* Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente. Drain the pasta and set aside.

2. Prepare the pesto: In a food processor, combine the basil leaves, pine nuts, garlic, Parmesan cheese, and olive oil. Pulse until the ingredients are finely chopped and combined. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

3. Combine the pasta and pesto: Add the cooked pasta to the food processor with the pesto and pulse until the pasta is coated.

4. Serve: Serve immediately with a sprinkle of additional Parmesan cheese, if desired.

Tips:

* For a richer flavor, use a mix of fresh and dried basil.

* If you don't have pine nuts, you can substitute with walnuts or almonds.

* Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.

* You can also add other vegetables to your pesto pasta, like cherry tomatoes, roasted red peppers, or sauteed mushrooms.

* To keep your pesto fresh, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Enjoy your delicious and easy homemade pesto penne pasta!