Brussels sprouts and pesto pasta is a dish that dances on your palate with a delightful crunch and a burst of fresh flavor. Imagine twirling noodles coated in vibrant green pesto, mingling with crispy Brussels sprouts, and creating a culinary masterpiece that not only satisfies but also brings joy.
I first discovered this dish at a charming little café while avoiding my responsibilities (you know, the usual “I’ll just check one more menu item”). The moment I took my first bite, it was love at first taste. Since then, Brussels sprouts and pesto pasta has become my go-to for impressing friends or simply treating myself on a cozy night in. Trust me; it’s perfect for dinner parties or lazy Sundays when you want something delicious without the fuss.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This easy-to-make dish combines vibrant flavors and textures for an unforgettable experience.
- You can whip it up in under 30 minutes, making weeknight dinners a breeze.
- The colorful presentation adds visual appeal, making it perfect for impressing guests.
- Plus, it’s versatile enough to pair with your favorite proteins or stand alone as a vegetarian delight.
Ingredients for Brussels Sprouts And Pesto Pasta
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
Pasta of Your Choice: I love using farfalle or penne, but any type will do—just avoid spaghetti unless you want a noodle wrestling match.
Brussels Sprouts: Fresh Brussels sprouts are key here; look for firm ones with bright green leaves to ensure maximum crunch.
Pesto Sauce: Store-bought is great for convenience, but if you’re feeling adventurous, homemade pesto takes this dish to another level.
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan adds a savory richness—please avoid the powdered stuff; we’re not in the school cafeteria anymore.
Olive Oil: A drizzle of good quality olive oil enhances flavors and helps roast those Brussels sprouts to perfection.
Salt and Pepper: These simple seasonings elevate the flavors—don’t skip them unless you enjoy bland food!
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Brussels Sprouts And Pesto Pasta
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). While it’s heating up, line a baking sheet with parchment paper because we don’t want our delicious sprouts sticking like they owe them money.
Step 2: Prepare the Brussels Sprouts
Trim the ends off the Brussels sprouts and slice them in half. Toss them in olive oil along with salt and pepper in a large bowl until they are well-coated. Spread them out on the baking sheet cut side down for optimal roasting.
Step 3: Roast the Sprouts
Roast those little green gems in the oven for about 20-25 minutes until they’re golden brown and crispy—like tiny vegetable nuggets of joy. Give them a little shake halfway through so they don’t get too cozy with one another.
Step 4: Cook the Pasta
While your veggies are roasting, boil water in a large pot and add salt generously (think ocean-level salinity). Cook your pasta according to package instructions until al dente—firm enough to hold its own against that decadent pesto.
Step 5: Combine Everything
Once everything is cooked, drain the pasta (do not rinse!) and toss it back into the pot. Add in your roasted Brussels sprouts and pour in generous amounts of pesto sauce. Stir until everything is evenly coated like they’ve taken a dip in flavor town.
Step 6: Serve Up
Transfer your masterpiece onto plates and sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese on top like confetti at an Italian wedding. Voilà! You have just created an unforgettable dish that will have everyone asking for seconds—and possibly your secret recipe!
This Brussels sprouts and pesto pasta is not just food; it’s an experience filled with laughter (especially if you accidentally drop some pasta), smiles, and plenty of satisfied bellies! Enjoy every bite—you deserve it!
You Must Know
- This delicious Brussels sprouts and pesto pasta not only tantalizes your taste buds but also makes meal prep a breeze.
- The fresh flavors burst with every bite, making it a perfect dish for any gathering or cozy night in.
- Easy to whip up, it’s a crowd-pleaser!
Perfecting the Cooking Process
First, roast the Brussels sprouts to bring out their nutty flavor. While they roast, cook the pasta until al dente. Finally, toss everything in a vibrant pesto sauce for a perfect finish.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to customize your Brussels sprouts and pesto pasta by adding grilled chicken or chickpeas for protein. Swap out the pasta for zucchini noodles or add sun-dried tomatoes for an extra kick.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover Brussels sprouts and pesto pasta in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of olive oil to maintain flavor and texture.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Use fresh Brussels sprouts for the best flavor; frozen ones may become mushy.
- Toast your pine nuts before adding them to the pesto for extra depth.
- Always reserve some pasta water before draining; it helps bind the sauce perfectly!
My cousin once tried this Brussels sprouts and pesto pasta at a family gathering and declared it was “life-changing.” Who knew veggies could bring such joy? It’s now her go-to recipe!
FAQs:
What are the key ingredients for Brussels Sprouts And Pesto Pasta?
Brussels Sprouts And Pesto Pasta features simple yet flavorful ingredients. You will need fresh Brussels sprouts, pasta of your choice, homemade or store-bought pesto, olive oil, garlic, and Parmesan cheese for a delightful finish. Feel free to add nuts like pine nuts or walnuts for added texture. This dish combines the nuttiness of the sprouts with the vibrancy of pesto, creating a deliciously healthy meal.
How long does it take to prepare Brussels Sprouts And Pesto Pasta?
Preparing Brussels Sprouts And Pesto Pasta is quick and easy. The total cooking time typically takes around 30 minutes. You’ll spend about 10 minutes washing and cutting the Brussels sprouts, while the pasta takes around 10-12 minutes to cook. Sautéing the sprouts with garlic and mixing everything together will take an additional 5-10 minutes. This makes it a perfect weeknight dinner option for busy individuals.
Can I make Brussels Sprouts And Pesto Pasta vegan?
Yes, you can easily make Brussels Sprouts And Pesto Pasta vegan by substituting a few ingredients. Instead of traditional Parmesan cheese, try using nutritional yeast or a vegan cheese alternative to maintain that cheesy flavor. Additionally, ensure that your pesto is made without any cheese or use a vegan version available in stores. This way, you can enjoy a delicious plant-based meal without sacrificing taste.
What can I serve with Brussels Sprouts And Pesto Pasta?
Brussels Sprouts And Pesto Pasta pairs well with various side dishes. Consider serving it alongside garlic bread or a simple mixed green salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette. For a heartier option, grilled chicken or shrimp complements the pasta nicely. You can also add roasted vegetables for extra flavor and nutrition, making it a versatile dish suitable for any occasion.
Conclusion for Brussels Sprouts And Pesto Pasta:
Brussels Sprouts And Pesto Pasta is not only quick to prepare but also delivers rich flavors and nutrition in every bite. With its key ingredients like fresh Brussels sprouts and vibrant pesto, this dish provides an excellent balance of taste and health benefits. Whether you opt for a vegan version or stick to traditional recipes, this pasta is sure to impress at any dinner table. Enjoy this delightful meal tonight!
Brussels Sprouts and Pesto Pasta
Brussels Sprouts and Pesto Pasta is a vibrant dish that harmoniously blends crisp Brussels sprouts with al dente pasta, all enveloped in a rich, aromatic pesto sauce. This quick-to-make recipe brings a burst of freshness and flavor to your table, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions. With nutty roasted sprouts and the delightful essence of pesto, every bite promises satisfaction. Elevate your meals with this easy-to-follow recipe that’s both wholesome and delicious.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients
- 8 oz pasta (farfalle or penne)
- 2 cups fresh Brussels sprouts, halved
- 1 cup pesto sauce
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Toss halved Brussels sprouts in olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread on the baking sheet cut side down.
- Roast for 20-25 minutes until golden brown and crispy.
- Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente; drain (do not rinse).
- In a large pot, combine cooked pasta, roasted Brussels sprouts, and pesto sauce; toss until evenly coated.
- Serve immediately topped with grated Parmesan cheese.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 550mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 17g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 52g
- Fiber: 6g
- Protein: 15g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
Keywords: For added protein, consider mixing in grilled chicken or chickpeas. Substitute pasta with zucchini noodles for a low-carb option. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to three days; reheat gently with olive oil.
