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Trofie al Pesto is a traditional Italian dish that hails from the beautiful region of Liguria. This delightful pasta is characterized by its twisted shape, which perfectly holds onto the aromatic basil pesto sauce. Making Trofie al Pesto at home is not only easy but also a wonderful way to enjoy fresh ingredients and authentic Italian flavors. In this article, we will guide you through the process of creating this delicious recipe, including the ingredients you’ll need and step-by-step instructions.
Ingredients
- 400g Trofie pasta
- 2 cups fresh basil leaves
- 50g pine nuts
- 100g grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cloves garlic
- 150ml extra virgin olive oil
- Salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Pesto Sauce
Start by washing the fresh basil leaves thoroughly and patting them dry. In a food processor, combine the basil leaves, pine nuts, garlic, and a pinch of salt. Blend these ingredients until they are finely chopped.
Step 2: Add the Cheese and Olive Oil
Next, add the grated Parmesan cheese to the mixture. While the food processor is running, slowly drizzle in the extra virgin olive oil until the pesto reaches a smooth consistency. Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and freshly ground black pepper as needed.
Step 3: Cook the Trofie Pasta
In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the Trofie pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente, usually about 8-10 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent the pasta from sticking together.
Step 4: Combine Pasta and Pesto
Once the pasta is cooked, reserve a cup of pasta water and then drain the pasta. In a large mixing bowl, combine the hot pasta with the prepared pesto sauce. If the mixture is too thick, add a little reserved pasta water to achieve your desired consistency.
Step 5: Serve
Plate the Trofie al Pesto and garnish with additional grated Parmesan cheese and a drizzle of olive oil. Enjoy your homemade Italian delight!
FAQs
What is Trofie pasta?
Trofie is a traditional Italian pasta shape from Liguria, characterized by its short, twisted form. It is perfect for holding sauces like pesto.
Can I make Trofie al Pesto ahead of time?
While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the pesto in advance and store it in the refrigerator for a few days. Just cook the pasta right before serving.
What can I use instead of pine nuts in pesto?
If you have allergies or cannot find pine nuts, you can substitute them with walnuts, almonds, or even sunflower seeds for a different flavor profile.
Is Trofie al Pesto suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, Trofie al Pesto is a vegetarian dish as it contains no meat or fish. Just ensure that the cheese used is vegetarian-friendly.
How can I make Trofie al Pesto vegan?
To make this recipe vegan, you can replace the Parmesan cheese with nutritional yeast or a vegan cheese alternative.
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