ARE CASHEWS GLUTEN-FREE?

Yes, cashews are inherently gluten-free. However, it's important to note that cross-contamination can occur during processing or packaging. It's advisable to choose cashews that are labeled as gluten-free

SHOULD I SERVE THIS PASTA HOT OR COLD?

Both ways are acceptable. Cold for the warmer days will give you a vibrant pasta salad, and you could serve it with a green salad on the side . Serving it hot is perfect for those colder days.

PASTA WITH PESTO IDEAS? - ADD MORE VEGETABLES!

Consider adding other vegetables such as sautéed cherry tomatoes, roasted red peppers, artichokes , zucchini, green beans, or peas to the pasta for extra color and flavor.

WAYS TO USE PESTO WITHOUT PASTA

in salads on sandwiches in tacos in wraps with cheese and crackers

MY FAVORITE PASTA AL PESTO (PASTA WITH PESTO!)

Description

My favorite pasta al pesto (pasta with pesto!) It is a simple meal that uses minimal ingredients. It's budget-friendly and ready in 15 minutes, and a family favorite!

Ingredients

Scale

2 cups fresh basil leaves

1 cup roasted cashews (If the cashews are already salted, then you probably do not need to add more salt!)

1 garlic clove

5 tablespoons parmesan cheese (grated)

1/3 cup olive oil (extra virgin)

1 Squeeze of fresh lemon juice

salt and pepper to taste

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Instructions

Boil your favorite pasta in a pot of salted boiling water until al dente. Reserve 1/2 a cup of pasta water.

In a food processor, combine the fresh basil, cashew nuts, garlic, and Parmesan cheese. Don't over-pulse. Just a few short pulses at a time. Scraping down the sides as you go.

With the food processor running, drizzle in extra virgin olive oil until the pesto reaches your desired consistency.

Add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice to the pesto for a zesty kick and a small pinch of salt and pepper.

Toss the freshly cooked pasta in the homemade pesto sauce, using the reserved pasta water to achieve a silky, cohesive blend, or if you feel like the sauce needs to be thinner.

Serve the Pasta al Pesto with a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese.

Notes

Don't over-pulse. Just a few short pulses at time. Scraping down the sides as you go.

Use good quality olive oil if possible.

Packaged, roasted cashew nuts work best.

Make sure you taste and then season some more if needed. Maybe a little more salt or a squeeze of lemon juice to make it more zingy and to your liking. Taste your pesto as you go and adjust the salt levels. Cashews can be salty, so be mindful of how much additional salt you need.

If the cashews are already salted, then you probably do not need to add more salt!

Select a pasta shape that complements your pesto. Short pasta like fusilli or penne can catch the pesto, while long pasta like spaghetti can be elegantly coated.

Pesto is best enjoyed fresh. Serve spaghetti alla pesto immediately after tossing it in the sauce.

Category: Main Course
Method: No-Bake
Cuisine: Italian