Fusilli com Pesto de Manjericão

Fusilli com Pesto de Manjericão is a vibrant and aromatic Brazilian pasta dish that showcases the freshness of basil and the richness of cheese. This delightful meal is quick to prepare, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.

Ingredients

• Fusilli pasta - 200 grams
• Fresh basil leaves - 50 grams
• Garlic cloves - 2
• Pine nuts - 30 grams
• Parmesan cheese, grated - 50 grams
• Olive oil - 60 milliliters
• Salt - to taste
• Black pepper - to taste
• Cherry tomatoes - 100 grams (for garnish)

Steps

1. Bring a pot of salted water to a boil and cook the fusilli pasta according to package instructions until al dente, usually about 10-12 minutes.
2. While the pasta is cooking, prepare the pesto: In a food processor, combine the fresh basil leaves, garlic cloves, pine nuts, and grated Parmesan cheese.
3. Pulse the mixture until finely chopped, then slowly drizzle in the olive oil while the processor is running until it reaches a smooth consistency.
4. Season the pesto with salt and black pepper to taste.
5. Once the pasta is ready, reserve a small cup of pasta water, then drain the fusilli.
6. In a large mixing bowl, combine the drained fusilli with the pesto, adding reserved pasta water as needed to help coat the pasta evenly.
7. Serve the pasta hot, garnished with halved cherry tomatoes and a sprinkle of extra Parmesan cheese if desired.

Nutrition

• Calories: 550
• Protein: 15 g
• Carbs: 75 g
• Fiber: 3 g
• Sugar: 2 g
• Sodium: 300 mg
• Cholesterol: 10 mg
• Total Fat: 22 g
• Saturated Fat: 4 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 16 g
• Water: 0.2 L

Health Benefits

• Rich in antioxidants from basil, which can help reduce inflammation.
• Provides healthy fats from olive oil and pine nuts, supporting heart health.

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