Delicious Barilla Creamy Genovese Pesto Recipe: Easy & Tasty

Looking for a delicious and easy-to-make pasta recipe to satisfy your cravings? Look no further! Introducing the Barilla Creamy Genovese Pesto recipe – a mouthwatering blend of fresh basil, Parmesan cheese, pine nuts, and extra virgin olive oil. This creamy and flavorful pesto sauce is the perfect companion to your favorite pasta, creating a dish that is both comforting and satisfying. In this article, we will guide you through the simple steps of mastering this recipe, ensuring that your next pasta night is a culinary delight. So, get ready to experience the tantalizing flavors of Barilla Creamy Genovese Pesto recipe that will leave you wanting more. Let’s dive right in!

Barilla Creamy Genovese Pesto Recipe

Imagine a delectable dish that combines the freshness of basil, the creaminess of cheese, and the richness of nuts. Look no further than Barilla Creamy Genovese Pesto. This versatile sauce can elevate any pasta dish, adding a burst of flavor and a touch of elegance. In this article, we will delve into the world of Barilla Creamy Genovese Pesto, exploring its history, ingredients, and, most importantly, a step-by-step recipe to create a mouth-watering dish that will tantalize your taste buds. So, let’s dive in!

A Brief History of Pesto

Before we delve into the details of the Barilla Creamy Genovese Pesto recipe, let’s take a moment to appreciate the rich history of pesto. Originating from Genoa in northern Italy, pesto has been a beloved sauce for centuries. The word “pesto” derives from the Italian verb “pestare,” which means to crush or grind, referring to the traditional method of making pesto by pounding the ingredients together in a mortar and pestle.

Traditional pesto is made with fresh basil leaves, garlic, pine nuts, Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese, pecorino cheese, olive oil, and a pinch of salt. The ingredients are carefully combined to create a vibrant green sauce with a robust flavor profile. Over time, pesto has evolved, and variations like creamy pesto have emerged, offering a new twist on this classic sauce.

The Ingredients You’ll Need

To prepare the Barilla Creamy Genovese Pesto recipe, gather the following ingredients:

• 1 jar of Barilla Creamy Genovese Pesto
• 12 ounces of your favorite pasta
• 2 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil
• 1 cup of cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 cup of fresh basil leaves, torn
• ¼ cup of grated Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese
• Salt and pepper to taste

Optional:

• Grilled chicken, shrimp, or roasted vegetables for protein and added flavor

Step-by-Step Instructions

Now that we have all the ingredients ready, let’s dive into the step-by-step instructions for making the delicious Barilla Creamy Genovese Pesto pasta dish:

1. Start by boiling water in a large pot. Add salt to the boiling water to enhance the pasta’s flavor.
2. While the water is coming to a boil, heat 2 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
3. Add the cherry tomatoes to the skillet and sauté them until they start to soften, which should take about 2-3 minutes.
4. Once the tomatoes are softened, remove them from the skillet and set them aside.
5. Add the pasta to the boiling water and cook according to the package instructions until al dente.
6. While the pasta is cooking, reduce the heat to low and pour the entire jar of Barilla Creamy Genovese Pesto into the same skillet where you sautéed the tomatoes.
7. Gently heat the pesto sauce, stirring occasionally to prevent it from sticking to the skillet.
8. Once the pasta is cooked, drain it, reserving about 1/2 cup of the cooking water.
9. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the creamy Genovese pesto sauce, stirring well to coat the pasta evenly.
10. If the sauce seems too thick, gradually add the reserved cooking water to thin it out to your desired consistency.
11. Finally, add the sautéed cherry tomatoes, torn basil leaves, and grated Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese to the pasta. Give it a good stir to incorporate all the ingredients.
12. Season with salt and pepper to taste, ensuring the flavors are well balanced.
13. Your Barilla Creamy Genovese Pesto pasta is now ready to be served!

Optional Additions

While the Barilla Creamy Genovese Pesto pasta is delicious on its own, you can take it up a notch by adding some protein or roasted vegetables. Here are a few optional additions to consider:

• Grilled Chicken: Sauté some chicken breast strips in olive oil until cooked through, then toss them with the pasta for a protein-packed meal.
• Shrimp: Sauté shrimp in butter or olive oil until pink and cooked, then combine them with the pasta to add a seafood twist.
• Roasted Vegetables: Roast your favorite vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, and eggplant, and mix them with the pasta for added texture and flavor.

In conclusion, Barilla Creamy Genovese Pesto offers a delightful twist on the traditional pesto sauce. Its creamy texture and bold flavors can transform an ordinary pasta dish into an extraordinary culinary experience. By following the step-by-step recipe outlined in this article, you can recreate this delectable dish in the comfort of your own kitchen. Whether you choose to enjoy it as a standalone meal or enhance it with additional ingredients, the Barilla Creamy Genovese Pesto pasta is sure to impress your family and friends. So, gather the ingredients, unleash your culinary skills, and savor the taste of this delicious pasta creation!

Barilla | Enjoy Pesto Pasta Perfected! | 15s

Frequently Asked Questions

What ingredients are needed for the Barilla Creamy Genovese Pesto recipe?

The ingredients required for the Barilla Creamy Genovese Pesto recipe are:

• Barilla Genovese Pesto Sauce
• Pasta of your choice
• Extra virgin olive oil
• Grated Parmesan cheese

How do I prepare Barilla Creamy Genovese Pesto pasta?

To prepare Barilla Creamy Genovese Pesto pasta, follow these steps:

1. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions.
2. In a large skillet, heat the Barilla Genovese Pesto Sauce over medium heat.
3. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss until it is well coated with the sauce.
4. Drizzle some extra virgin olive oil over the pasta and toss again.
5. Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese on top before serving.

Can I add any additional ingredients to the Barilla Creamy Genovese Pesto pasta?

Absolutely! You can customize the recipe by adding ingredients such as:

• Cherry tomatoes
• Sautéed mushrooms
• Grilled chicken
• Steamed vegetables

Feel free to experiment and add your favorite ingredients to enhance the flavor and texture of the dish.

Is the Barilla Creamy Genovese Pesto pasta suitable for vegetarians?

Yes, the Barilla Creamy Genovese Pesto pasta is suitable for vegetarians as it does not contain any meat or meat-based ingredients. It is a delicious vegetarian option that can be enjoyed by everyone.

Can I store leftovers of the Barilla Creamy Genovese Pesto pasta?

Yes, you can store leftovers of the Barilla Creamy Genovese Pesto pasta. Allow the pasta to cool down, then transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate. It can be stored for up to 3-4 days. When reheating, you may need to add a little bit of water or olive oil to restore the creaminess of the sauce.

Final Thoughts

The Barilla Creamy Genovese Pesto recipe is a delicious and versatile option for pasta lovers. With its rich and creamy texture, it adds a burst of flavor to any dish. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced cook, this recipe is easy to follow and guarantees a satisfying meal. The combination of basil, pine nuts, and Parmesan cheese creates a harmonious blend of ingredients that will transport your taste buds to Italy. So, if you’re looking to elevate your pasta game, the Barilla Creamy Genovese Pesto recipe is a must-try.