Are you craving a flavorful and satisfying meal that transports you to the sun-drenched shores of the Mediterranean? Look no further! This recipe combines the delicate nutty sweetness of pine nuts with the comforting heartiness of pasta, creating a dish that's both easy to make and incredibly delicious. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this pasta recipe is sure to become a new family favorite. It's a fantastic example of healthy meals and delicious dishes all in one!
Ingredients:
This recipe easily serves 4 people.
- 1 pound pasta (linguine, fettuccine, or your favorite shape)
- 1/4 cup pine nuts, toasted
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus extra for serving
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup vegetable broth (or chicken broth for a richer flavor)
- 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes (oil-packed, drained)
- Optional: Red pepper flakes for a spicy kick
Instructions:
Step 1: Toast the Pine Nuts
Begin by toasting the pine nuts. This enhances their flavor and gives them a lovely crunch. Spread the pine nuts in a single layer on a dry skillet over medium heat. Toast, stirring frequently, until lightly golden brown, about 3-5 minutes. Watch carefully to prevent burning. Set aside.
Step 2: Cook the Pasta
While the pine nuts are toasting, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente. Reserve about 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining.
Step 3: Sauté Garlic and Sun-dried Tomatoes
While the pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute, until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic. Add the sun-dried tomatoes and cook for another minute, stirring occasionally.
Step 4: Combine and Simmer
Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the garlic and sun-dried tomatoes. Stir in the Parmesan cheese, basil, toasted pine nuts, and vegetable broth. Season generously with salt and pepper. If the sauce is too thick, add a little of the reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency. Simmer for 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!
Serve immediately, topped with extra Parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes, if desired. This easy recipe is a great example of homemade cooking at its finest.
Cooking Tips for the Best Results:
- Don't over-toast the pine nuts: Keep a close eye on them to prevent burning, which can result in a bitter taste.
- Use high-quality ingredients: The flavor of this dish is greatly enhanced by using fresh basil and good quality olive oil and Parmesan cheese.
- Adjust seasonings to your taste: Feel free to add more or less salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes to suit your preference.
- Add protein: For a more substantial meal, you can add cooked chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas to this pasta dish.
Variations:
- Lemon Pine Nut Pasta: Add the zest and juice of one lemon to the sauce for a bright and zesty flavor.
- Creamy Pine Nut Pasta: Stir in a splash of heavy cream or crème fraîche at the end for a richer, creamier sauce.
- Spinach and Pine Nut Pasta: Add a handful of fresh spinach to the skillet along with the pasta. The spinach will wilt quickly in the heat.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
Calories: Approximately 450-500 Fat: 25-30g Protein: 10-15g Carbohydrates: 50-60g
This quick dinner idea is a perfect example of healthy meals that are also delicious and satisfying. Enjoy this easy recipe and let us know what you think!