Best Easy Pesto Pasta Recipe: Jamie Oliver’s Delicious Creation

When it comes to quick and satisfying meals, pasta always tops the list. And if you’re a fan of the classic Italian dish, then you must try Jamie Oliver’s Best Easy Pesto Pasta recipe. This delightful creation is not only simple to make but also bursting with flavor. So, let’s dive into the world of pesto pasta and discover how Jamie Oliver elevates this dish to a whole new level.

Ingredients:
– 350g dried pasta
– 4 tablespoons pesto
– 1 lemon
– 100g grated Parmesan cheese
– Extra virgin olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:
1. Cook the pasta: Fill a large pot with water, season it with salt, and bring it to a boil. Add the pasta and cook until al dente. Drain the pasta, reserving a cup of the cooking water.

2. Prepare the pesto: In a blender or food processor, add the basil leaves, Parmesan cheese, a squeeze of lemon juice, and a drizzle of olive oil. Blend until you achieve a smooth consistency. Add salt and pepper to taste.

3. Combine the pasta and pesto: In a large bowl, mix the cooked pasta with the pesto sauce until well coated. If the sauce seems too thick, add a splash of the reserved cooking water to loosen it up.

4. Serve and garnish: Divide the pesto pasta among serving plates. Top each portion with a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese and a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil. Squeeze a bit of lemon juice over each plate for an extra burst of freshness.

Now that you have the basic recipe, let’s move on to some frequently asked questions about Jamie Oliver’s Best Easy Pesto Pasta:

1. Can I use fresh basil instead of dried?
Yes, fresh basil leaves are the key ingredient for making a delicious pesto sauce. Dried basil won’t provide the same vibrant flavor.

2. Is there a substitute for Parmesan cheese?
If you’re lactose intolerant or simply don’t enjoy Parmesan cheese, you can try using nutritional yeast or a vegan Parmesan alternative.

3. Can I store the leftover pesto pasta?
Yes, you can store the leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. However, the pasta may dry out a bit, so you might need to add a little olive oil or cooking water when reheating.

4. Can I add other ingredients to the pesto sauce?
Absolutely! You can experiment by adding pine nuts, garlic, or even sun-dried tomatoes to the pesto sauce for a twist of flavor.

5. Can I use a different type of pasta?
While the recipe suggests using dried pasta, you can certainly use fresh pasta or any shape you prefer. Just remember to adjust the cooking time accordingly.

6. Can I make the pesto sauce in advance?
Yes, you can make the pesto sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to a week. Just make sure to cover it with a thin layer of olive oil to prevent oxidation.

7. Can I freeze the pesto sauce?
Yes, you can freeze the pesto sauce in ice cube trays or small containers. When you’re ready to use it, simply thaw and mix it with freshly cooked pasta.

8. Can I add protein to this dish?
Absolutely! You can add grilled chicken, shrimp, or even roasted vegetables to make it a more substantial meal.

9. Can I make this recipe vegan?
Yes, you can easily make this recipe vegan by using vegan-friendly pasta and replacing the Parmesan cheese with a vegan substitute.

Now that you have all the information, it’s time to try Jamie Oliver’s Best Easy Pesto Pasta recipe. With its simplicity and incredible taste, this dish is sure to become a family favorite. So grab your ingredients, get cooking, and indulge in a bowl of heaven!