Fettucine al Pesto Genovese is one of those dishes that takes me straight back to my childhood. I remember the first time my grandmother taught me how to make pesto from scratch. The vibrant green of the fresh basil, the rich aroma of olive oil, and the creamy texture of freshly grated parmesan all intertwine to create a sauce that’s bursting with flavor. As we whirred everything together in the food processor, the kitchen filled with a fragrant aroma that made my mouth water. We always served it over freshly made fettucine, and as each plate was set at the table, I felt like we were sharing a piece of Italian tradition. This dish is perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a gathering with friends. It embodies the spirit of simplicity and deliciousness, proving that the best meals often come from the heart.

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
60 mins

Prep Time:
0 mins

Cook Time:
0 mins

Difficulty:
Easy

Calories:
560 kcal

Protein:
12 g

Diet:
Paleo, Whole30, Vegan

Fat:
32 g

Tools Used:
Large Pot, Chef’s Knife, Grater, Food Processor

Why This Fettucine al Pesto Genovese Is So Good

Authenticity of Ingredients

One of the things I love most about Fettucine al Pesto Genovese is its authenticity. The classic ingredients are simple yet so flavorful. Using fresh basil, high-quality olive oil, and real parmesan makes all the difference. This dish speaks to the heart of Italian cuisine, where each element is essential.

Versatility

This pasta dish is incredibly versatile. You can adjust the ingredients according to your preferences, whether you make it creamier with extra parmesan or add more garlic for an extra kick. It works equally well as a main course or a side dish for a larger meal.

Quick and Easy

Another reason I adore this recipe is how quick and easy it is to whip up. From start to finish, you can have a delicious meal ready in under 30 minutes. This makes it an ideal choice for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.

Freshness is Key

The freshness of the ingredients is what sets this recipe apart. When you make your pesto from scratch, the flavors are vibrant and lively. The zing of fresh basil combined with the nuttiness of pine nuts creates a sauce that’s simply irresistible.

Perfect for Any Season

While Fettucine al Pesto Genovese is perfect for spring, it’s a dish that can be enjoyed all year round. The bright colors and flavors bring a sense of warmth, making it a comforting choice even in colder months. Plus, it pairs beautifully with seasonal vegetables!

Great for Sharing

This dish is perfect for sharing with family and friends. The vibrant green pesto and luscious fettucine make for a stunning presentation on any dining table. It’s a dish that brings people together, encouraging laughter and good conversation.

What to Buy for Fettucine al Pesto Genovese

When it comes to making Fettucine al Pesto Genovese, the quality of your ingredients can make all the difference. Each component works in harmony to create a dish that’s rich in flavor and texture. The key players like fresh basil, olive oil, and parmesan are essential for a truly authentic experience.

4 cups packed basil – Fresh basil is crucial for creating a vibrant pesto. Its aromatic leaves provide the main flavor, making it the star of the show.
1/2 cup extra-virgin olive oil – A high-quality olive oil enriches the pesto, adding a smooth texture and depth of flavor.
1/2 cup finely grated parmesan – This adds creaminess and a salty profile that elevates the entire dish.
1/4 cup pine nuts – They add a nutty flavor and help create the pesto’s unique texture.
3 tbsp. finely grated pecorino – This cheese adds a sharper taste that complements the parmesan beautifully.
2 cloves garlic, finely chopped – Garlic provides a fragrant punch that balances the richness of the other ingredients.
Coarse sea salt, to taste – Enhances all the flavors in the pesto.
1 lb fresh linguine or fettuccine pasta – The base of the dish, fresh pasta cooks beautifully and holds onto the pesto.

Preparation Steps for Fettucine al Pesto Genovese

Making Fettucine al Pesto Genovese is a delightful process that brings together fresh flavors and satisfying textures. Follow these steps to create a dish that’s sure to impress. You’ll be amazed at how easy it is!

Start by bringing a large pot of water to a boil. This is essential for cooking the pasta. When it’s bubbling away, you’ll want to add plenty of salt to enhance the flavor of the pasta.
Next, prepare your fresh basil. Blanche the leaves by placing them into the boiling water for 20 to 30 seconds until they’re vibrant green. This step helps to preserve their bright color and fresh taste.
Immediately remove the basil from the boiling water and plunge it into an ice water bath. This stops the cooking process and keeps the leaves bright. Drain the basil well and set it aside.
Now, keep the pot of water boiling on the stove as you move on to the next step.
In a food processor, combine the blanched basil, olive oil, parmesan, pine nuts, pecorino, and garlic. Pulse until smooth. You want the mixture to be creamy and well combined. Season with salt and pepper according to your taste.
With your water still boiling, add the fettucine and cook until al dente. This usually takes around three to five minutes for fresh pasta.
Once the pasta is cooked, drain it, but reserve about half a cup of the cooking water. This starchy water will help to thin the sauce if needed.
Return the pasta to the pot and toss it with the created pesto until the noodles are evenly coated. If the sauce seems too thick, add some of the reserved cooking water to achieve your desired consistency.
Serve the Fettucine al Pesto Genovese immediately, garnishing with extra parmesan if desired. Enjoy the burst of fresh flavors in every bite!

Things Worth Knowing

Cooking Pasta: Always add salt to boiling water before adding pasta; this enhances the flavor.
Basil Storage: Store fresh basil in a glass of water or wrap in a damp paper towel and place in a plastic bag to keep it fresh longer.
Texture Matters: Don’t over-process the pesto; a little texture adds to the final dish.
Using Nuts: Toasting pine nuts before adding them to the pesto can deepen their flavor.

Make It Your Own

Every dish has room for personal touches, and Fettucine al Pesto Genovese is no exception. Here are some ways you can customize this delicious recipe to make it uniquely yours:

Add Protein: Toss in grilled chicken or shrimp for a heartier meal.
Experiment with Greens: Feel free to mix in other herbs like parsley or spinach for a different flavor profile.
Cheese Options: Try adding other types of cheese such as goat cheese for a tangy twist.
Make it Vegan: Substitute parmesan with nutritional yeast to maintain a cheesy flavor without dairy.
Storage: Store leftover pesto in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week. Drizzle a little olive oil on top to prevent browning.
Freezing: Pesto freezes well! Consider freezing it in ice cube trays for easy portioning later.
Pairing: Serve with a side of garlic bread or a fresh salad to round out your meal.

Serving This Fettucine al Pesto Genovese

When it comes to serving Fettucine al Pesto Genovese, presentation is key. Here are some ideas to elevate your meal:

Garnish: Finish your dish with a sprinkle of extra parmesan and a few fresh basil leaves for a pop of color.
Side Dishes: Pair with a crisp green salad or roasted vegetables to complement the richness of the pesto.
Occasions: This dish is perfect for family gatherings, date nights, or even casual get-togethers with friends.
Seasonal Pairings: In spring, serve with peas or asparagus; in fall, roasted squash makes a delightful addition.
Leftover Ideas: Toss leftover pasta with some grilled chicken and fresh veggies for a quick lunch.
Plate It Right: Use shallow bowls for serving to allow the beautiful colors of the dish to shine through.

FAQ

The freshness of the ingredients is what truly elevates Fettucine al Pesto Genovese. Using high-quality basil, olive oil, and freshly grated parmesan creates a dish that’s rich in flavor and texture. Each component works in harmony to deliver an authentic Italian experience that’s both comforting and satisfying.

Absolutely! While traditional recipes often call for fettucine, you can use any pasta shape you prefer. Linguine or even penne are great alternatives. The key is to ensure the pasta is fresh, as it will absorb the pesto sauce beautifully.

To store leftover pesto, place it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. You can also drizzle a bit of olive oil on top to prevent the pesto from browning. It should stay fresh for about one week. For longer storage, consider freezing it in ice cube trays for future use!

You can easily make a vegan version of Fettucine al Pesto Genovese by omitting the cheeses and substituting them with nutritional yeast. This will give you that cheesy flavor without using any dairy products. Just ensure that your pasta is also vegan, as some commercial pastas may contain eggs.

Conclusion

In summary, Fettucine al Pesto Genovese is a dish that represents the essence of Italian cooking—simple yet bursting with flavor. It’s a recipe that can easily become a family favorite, perfect for any occasion. I encourage you to try making it at home; the fresh ingredients and easy preparation will have you hooked. Enjoy a taste of Italy right in your kitchen!