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Experience the flavors of Italy with our Spaghetti with Homemade Pesto Sauce and Oregano recipe. This classic Italian dish combines the freshness of homemade pesto with the richness of oregano for a delightful and aromatic pasta experience. Whether you’re a pasta aficionado or new to Italian cuisine, this step-by-step guide will help you create a restaurant-worthy dish in the comfort of your own kitchen.
Spaghetti with Homemade Pesto Sauce and Oregano is a classic Italian pasta dish with a history dating back to ancient Rome. The name “pesto” comes from the Italian word “pestare,” which means “to crush” or “to pound,” referring to the traditional method of preparing this sauce. The origins of this dish are rooted in the Liguria region of Italy, particularly in Genoa, where it’s known as “Pesto Genovese.” The Genoese people take immense pride in their pesto, which is considered a culinary masterpiece.
- Ancient Roots: The concept of using crushed garlic, basil, and cheese as a condiment for pasta dates back centuries. It was a way to preserve the intense flavors of basil and garlic.
- Traditional Pounding: Traditionally, pesto is made by grinding fresh basil leaves, garlic, pine nuts, Parmesan cheese, and extra virgin olive oil with a mortar and pestle. This method imparts a unique texture and enhances the sauce’s flavors.
- Modern Variations: While the traditional recipe remains beloved, there are countless variations that include ingredients like sun-dried tomatoes, arugula, or even spinach. However, the core ingredients, including fresh basil, remain constant.
Spaghetti with Homemade Pesto Sauce and Oregano
Spaghetti with Homemade Pesto Sauce and Oregano is a timeless Italian recipe that brings together the vibrant flavors of fresh basil, pine nuts, Parmesan cheese, and garlic. Toss this fragrant pesto with perfectly cooked spaghetti, and finish with a sprinkle of dried oregano for an extra layer of taste and aroma.
Tools and Equipment
- Blender or Food Processor: Buy On Amazon / Buy On Amazon
- Large Pot: Buy On Amazon
- Colander: Buy On Amazon
- Cooking Spoon: Buy On Amazon
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: Buy On Amazon
- Grater: Buy On Amazon
- Large Mixing Bowl: Buy On Amazon
- Small Saucepan (optional): Buy On Amazon
- Frying Pan (optional): Buy On Amazon
Ingredients
For the Pesto Sauce:
For the Spaghetti:
For Garnish:
Step-by-Step Instructions
Prepare the Pesto Sauce:
Start by toasting the pine nuts (if using). In a small frying pan over medium heat, toast the pine nuts until they turn golden brown, stirring frequently. Remove from heat and let them cool.
In a blender or food processor, combine the fresh basil, toasted pine nuts, garlic cloves, and grated Parmesan cheese.
With the blender or food processor running, slowly drizzle in the extra-virgin olive oil until the mixture forms a smooth and creamy pesto sauce.
Season the pesto with salt and pepper to taste. Set aside.
Cook the Spaghetti:
In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil.
Add the spaghetti to the boiling water and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. This usually takes about 10-12 minutes.
Once cooked, use a colander to drain the spaghetti, reserving a small amount of pasta water.
Combine the Spaghetti and Pesto:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked spaghetti and the prepared pesto sauce. Toss until the spaghetti is evenly coated with the pesto.
If the pasta seems too dry, you can add a splash of the reserved pasta water to achieve your desired consistency.
Garnish with Oregano:
To enhance the flavor, sprinkle dried oregano evenly over the plated servings.
Serve and Enjoy:
Plate the spaghetti, garnished with oregano, and serve immediately.
Servings 6
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 416.02kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 22.01g34%
- Saturated Fat 4.03g21%
- Cholesterol 5.67mg2%
- Sodium 360.83mg16%
- Potassium 169.05mg5%
- Total Carbohydrate 43.56g15%
- Dietary Fiber 2.11g9%
- Sugars 1.57g
- Protein 10.76g22%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs. Please note that the nutritional values provided are approximate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients and portion sizes used. It's always best to double-check with your specific ingredients and measurements for accurate nutritional information.
Note
Tips and Variations:
- For extra creaminess, add a tablespoon of heavy cream to the pesto sauce.
- You can substitute other pasta shapes for spaghetti if desired.
- Customize your pesto by incorporating other herbs like parsley or cilantro.
- Consider adding a handful of cherry tomatoes or sun-dried tomatoes for a burst of flavor and color.
- Top your dish with freshly grated Parmesan cheese for an added cheesy kick.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve your Spaghetti with Homemade Pesto Sauce and Oregano with a side of garlic bread or a simple green salad.
- Pair it with a glass of Italian white wine for an authentic Italian dining experience.
Allergen Information:
Pesto sauce and pasta dishes are generally allergen-friendly, but it's essential to consider a few potential allergens:
Nuts: Traditional pesto includes pine nuts. If you or your guests have nut allergies, consider substituting them with toasted sunflower seeds or omitting them entirely.
Dairy: Parmesan cheese is a key ingredient in pesto. Be aware of any dairy allergies, and choose a dairy-free Parmesan alternative for a vegan-friendly version.
Wine or Drink Pairing:
Pairing wine or a beverage with Spaghetti with Homemade Pesto Sauce and Oregano can elevate the dining experience. Here are some options:
White Wine: A crisp, light white wine like Pinot Grigio, Sauvignon Blanc, or a dry Italian Vermentino complements the fresh basil and pine nut flavors in the pesto.
Red Wine: If you prefer red wine, a light-bodied, low-tannin red like Barbera or a young Chianti Classico can work well with pesto.
Iced Tea: For a non-alcoholic option, a refreshing iced tea with a squeeze of lemon can provide a pleasing contrast to the herbaceous pesto.
Storage and Leftovers:
If you have any leftovers from your delicious Spaghetti with Homemade Pesto Sauce and Oregano, here's what you can do:
Refrigeration: Store leftover pesto pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. The flavors often meld and intensify, making it a delightful next-day meal.
Reheating: Reheat the pasta gently in a microwave or on the stovetop. If the pesto appears dry, add a touch of olive oil to restore its consistency.
Freezing: You can also freeze the pesto sauce separately in an ice cube tray, then transfer the pesto cubes to a freezer bag for long-term storage. Cook fresh pasta when you're ready to enjoy the dish again, and simply thaw and reheat the pesto.
