Best Easy Pesto Cavatappi Corner Bakery Recipe
If you are a fan of Italian cuisine, then you must have tried the delicious Pesto Cavatappi at Corner Bakery. This creamy pasta dish with a burst of flavors can now be easily recreated in your own kitchen. Here is the best easy Pesto Cavatappi Corner Bakery recipe that will satisfy your cravings.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cavatappi pasta
– 2 cups fresh basil leaves
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/2 cup pine nuts
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/2 cup sliced black olives
– 1/2 cup chopped sun-dried tomatoes
– 1 cup heavy cream
Instructions:
1. Cook the cavatappi pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a food processor, combine the basil leaves, Parmesan cheese, pine nuts, garlic, and olive oil. Pulse until smooth and well combined. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. In a large skillet, heat the pesto sauce over medium heat. Add the cherry tomatoes, black olives, and sun-dried tomatoes. Cook for about 2-3 minutes until the tomatoes are slightly softened.
4. Stir in the heavy cream and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the sauce is heated through and well combined.
5. Add the cooked cavatappi pasta to the skillet and toss until the pasta is evenly coated with the pesto sauce. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until the pasta is heated through.
6. Serve the Pesto Cavatappi hot and garnish with additional Parmesan cheese, if desired.
Now, let’s dive into some frequently asked questions about this delicious Pesto Cavatappi Corner Bakery recipe:
Q1. Can I use another type of pasta instead of cavatappi?
A1. Yes, you can use any type of pasta you prefer. Fusilli or penne work well as alternatives to cavatappi.
Q2. Can I make the pesto sauce ahead of time?
A2. Absolutely! You can make the pesto sauce ahead of time and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.
Q3. Can I substitute the heavy cream with a lighter alternative?
A3. Yes, you can use half-and-half or whole milk instead of heavy cream for a lighter version of the dish. However, keep in mind that the sauce might be slightly thinner.
Q4. Can I add protein to this dish?
A4. Definitely! Grilled chicken, shrimp, or even cooked bacon can be excellent additions to this Pesto Cavatappi.
Q5. Can I freeze the leftovers?
A5. While it is possible to freeze the leftovers, the texture of the pasta might change slightly upon reheating. It is best to consume the dish fresh for the best taste and texture.
Q6. Can I add vegetables to this recipe?
A6. Absolutely! Feel free to add sautéed spinach, roasted red peppers, or any other vegetables you enjoy to add more flavor and nutrition.
Q7. What can I serve with Pesto Cavatappi?
A7. A simple side salad or garlic bread can complement this dish perfectly. You can also pair it with a glass of white wine for a complete Italian dining experience.
Now that you have the best easy Pesto Cavatappi Corner Bakery recipe and answers to your questions, it’s time to head to the kitchen and enjoy this delicious pasta dish. Buon appetito!