Fusilli ao Pesto

Fusilli ao Pesto is a vibrant Brazilian dish that combines the nutty flavors of a fresh basil pesto with gluten-free fusilli pasta. This delightful meal is quick to prepare, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.

Ingredients

• Gluten-free fusilli pasta - 200 grams
• Fresh basil leaves - 50 grams
• Pine nuts - 30 grams
• Garlic - 2 cloves
• Parmesan cheese, grated - 40 grams
• Olive oil - 100 ml
• Salt - 1 teaspoon
• Black pepper - to taste
• Cherry tomatoes - 100 grams, halved
• Fresh mozzarella balls - 100 grams, halved

Steps

1. Bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Add the gluten-free fusilli pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, usually around 8-10 minutes.
2. While the pasta cooks, prepare the pesto. In a food processor, combine fresh basil leaves, pine nuts, garlic, and grated Parmesan cheese. Pulse until finely chopped.
3. With the food processor running, slowly drizzle in the olive oil until the mixture is smooth and well combined. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
4. Once the pasta is cooked, drain it and reserve about 1/4 cup of the cooking water. Return the pasta to the pot.
5. Add the pesto to the pasta, along with the reserved cooking water. Toss well to combine, ensuring all the pasta is coated with the pesto.
6. Gently fold in the halved cherry tomatoes and mozzarella balls.
7. Serve immediately, garnished with extra basil leaves and grated Parmesan if desired.

Nutrition

• Calories: 540
• Protein: 18 g
• Carbs: 60 g
• Fiber: 4 g
• Sugar: 3 g
• Sodium: 400 mg
• Cholesterol: 20 mg
• Total Fat: 26 g
• Saturated Fat: 6 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 18 g
• Water: 0.25 L

Health Benefits

• Rich in healthy fats from olive oil and pine nuts.
• Provides a good source of antioxidants from fresh basil.

Tags