As far as quick and simple dishes go this is Homemade Pesto Pasta is one of my all time favourites. Pesto Pasta is well known around the world. I remember when it first became really popular in Australia I was in my teens and went camping with a big group of friends. I bought a jar of store bought pesto and cooked up some pasta and thought I was very sophisticated indeed 🤣. Although a rudimentary meal it was a crowd pleaser at that camp and that is where my love of Pesto began.

While store bought pesto still has a place nothing beats the flavour, scent, texture and taste of a fresh batch of Homemade Pesto Pasta. It’s so easy to make you really don’t have any excuse. Pop your pasta on the boil and by the time its done you can have your pesto made.

What goes into a Pesto?

The thing I love most about pesto is that its versatile. While a traditional pesto is made from basil, pine nuts, garlic, parmesan and olive oil, you can actually make pesto with a variety of different ingredients successfully. Fresh ingredients make for the best Homemade Pesto Pasta.

Variations of Pesto

In the past I have made Pesto with a many different ingredients but the opportunities are endless, below are a few combinations that I have used in the past that have worked really well. Pesto Pasta uses can vary as much as the ingredients you include.

• Rocket, walnuts, balsamic, olive oil (great for vegans)
• Spinach, almonds, parmesan
• Red Pesto: sundried tomatoes, pine nuts, parmesan and olive oil
• Kale, olive oil, lemon juice and garlic

Texture of Pesto

The texture of a pesto is all about personal taste. Sometimes I want my pesto smooth and sometimes I want it more textured depending on what I am serving it with. For a smoother texture just keep blitzing in the food processor, for a rough texture I will make my pesto in a mortar and pestle instead. This technique works perfectly for creating the ideal Homemade Pesto Pasta.

Different uses for Pesto

While it is traditional to serve pesto with pasta there are so many other uses for the delicious pesto sauce, you can: This also highlights the versatility of Homemade Pesto Pasta beyond standard dishes.

• Serve a dollop of pesto drizzled over some grilled fish
• Spread pesto on a toasted sandwich with grilled vegetables and cheese
• Serve pesto as a dressing on a simple tomato and mozzarella salad
• Add pesto to your pizza along with your other favourite toppings

So what are you waiting for, dust of your food processer and get blending. You can have some delicious and fresh Homemade Pesto Pasta in minutes. Happy Cooking!