Pasta al pesto
Cookware & equipmentInstructions describe the base batch. Ingredient quantities adjust to your selected servings; cooking times and pan sizes may need adjustment.
- Step 1
Follow the recipe
Bring pasta water to a boil. Crush or briefly blend basil, nuts and garlic, then fold in cheese, oil and salt.
- Step 2
Follow the recipe
Cook pasta as directed and reserve 1 cup starchy water.
- Step 3
Follow the recipe
Drain and let the pasta stop steaming vigorously.
- Step 4
Follow the recipe
Off heat toss with pesto, loosening with reserved water; do not simmer the pesto.
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Cookware for this recipe
Start with what you already own. These are suggested tools, not personally tested recommendations.
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Soup or pasta pot
Use a suitable pot you already own.
Amazon option: Cuisinart Chef's Classic 8-Quart Stockpot with Cover
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Colander
Use an existing colander; a fine strainer also works for small quantities.
Amazon option: OXO Good Grips 5-Quart Stainless Steel Colander
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Large skillet with a lid
Use an existing appropriately sized pan and fitting lid.
Amazon option: T-fal Ultimate Hard Anodized 12-Inch Fry Pan with Lid
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Blender or food processor
Use a suitable equivalent you already own.
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Measuring cups and spoons
Use your existing kitchen measures; do not swap weight and volume.
Amazon option: TILUCK Stainless Steel Measuring Cups and Spoons, 10-Piece Set
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Digital kitchen scale
Use a working kitchen scale you already own. Volume measures and weights are not interchangeable.
Amazon option: Etekcity Digital Kitchen Scale, 11 lb
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Recipe notes & food safety
Editorial draft — cooking, timing and origin review pending. Kitchen testing: not tested. Origin review is pending; no historical attribution is claimed.
Cooking times are estimates; kitchen testing is pending. Review labels, allergies and household needs. Keep raw ingredients separate and follow the recipe's temperature guidance. Serving illustrations are AI-generated.