Embrace the flavors of Sicily with this simple yet exquisite Spaghetti with Sicilian Pesto recipe. Taught by a Sicilian chef, this dish combines fresh, vibrant ingredients for a taste of Italy in just five minutes. Perfect for a quick dinner that doesn’t compromise on flavor or quality.
Ingredients:
- 250 g (9 oz) of spaghetti
- 3 ripe tomatoes
- 40 g (1.5 oz) of grated Parmesan cheese
- 40 g (1.5 oz) of pine nuts
- 1 clove of garlic
- A handful of fresh basil leaves
- 150 g (5 oz) of ricotta cheese
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Olive oil
Instructions:
- Cook Pasta:
- Boil a large pot of salted water. Cook the spaghetti until al dente according to package instructions.
- Make Sicilian Pesto:
- Roughly chop the tomatoes.
- In a blender, combine the tomatoes, pine nuts, garlic, and basil. Blend to a coarse paste.
- Add ricotta cheese and blend until smooth. Adjust consistency with olive oil if too thick.
- Season with salt and pepper, then stir in grated Parmesan.
- Combine and Serve:
- Drain the spaghetti, reserving a cup of pasta water.
- Return spaghetti to the pot. Over low heat, mix in the pesto, adding reserved pasta water as needed to achieve a creamy texture.
- Adjust seasoning if necessary.
- Garnish and Enjoy:
- Serve hot, topped with extra olive oil, Parmesan, and fresh basil leaves.
Tips for Perfecting Your Spaghetti with Sicilian Pesto:
- Fresh Ingredients: Use fresh, high-quality ingredients for the best flavor—ripe tomatoes, fresh basil, and real Parmesan cheese make a noticeable difference.
- Pasta Water: Don’t forget to reserve some pasta water; it’s perfect for adjusting the pesto sauce’s consistency, making it creamy without extra fat.
- Serving Temperature: Serve the pasta warm to ensure the ricotta in the pesto melts slightly, coating the spaghetti beautifully.
- Variations: For a non-dairy version, substitute ricotta with blended soaked cashews. Add crushed red pepper if you enjoy a little heat.
Serving Suggestions:
Spaghetti with Sicilian Pesto is a versatile dish that can be adapted for various dining settings:
- Casual Family Dinners: This dish is perfect for a quick weekday meal that brings the family together without spending hours in the kitchen.
- Entertaining Guests: Impress your guests with this elegant yet easy-to-make pasta dish, which pairs wonderfully with a fine wine and a starter of antipasti.
- Romantic Dinner: Its rich flavor and gourmet appeal make it ideal for a date night at home.
Nutrition Information:
This Spaghetti with Sicilian Pesto offers a nutritious meal that balances indulgence with health benefits:
- Calories: Approximately 600-700 calories per serving, making it a hearty main course.
- Proteins: The combination of ricotta and Parmesan provides a good source of protein.
- Healthy Fats: Pine nuts and olive oil contribute heart-healthy monounsaturated fats.
- Vitamins and Minerals: Ricotta is rich in calcium, while tomatoes and basil supply vitamins A and C, crucial for immune function and skin health.
Explore More:
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- Fat Burning Vegetable Soup: Suggest this as a healthy starter to complement the pasta dish for a full meal.
- Healthy Zucchini Salad for Weight Loss: Recommend this light, nutritious salad as a side to balance the richness of the pasta.
- Zucchini Potato Bake with Turkey and Cheese: Offer this as an alternative main dish for those who might want a lower-carb option or to serve alongside the pasta for larger gatherings.