In the heart of Italy's Liguria region lies a culinary secret that has charmed palates across the globe - the Pesto Genovese. The key to its vibrant flavor is not just in the traditional ingredients but in the quality and authenticity of its components. Today, we bring a slice of this Italian paradise into your kitchen with a classic recipe - Linguine al Pesto Genovese - featuring the exquisite Pesto Ligure by Ranise, available at Cucina Mercato.
Ingredients for Authentic Ligurian Linguine al Pesto:
400g (14oz) Linguine pasta
120g (4.2oz) Pesto Ligure by Ranise
2 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil
50g (1.76oz) Parmigiano Reggiano, freshly grated
30g (1oz) Pecorino cheese, freshly grated
2 tablespoons pine nuts (optional for garnish)
Fresh basil leaves for garnish
Salt to taste
A pinch of black pepper (optional)
Instructions:
Preparing the Pasta: Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a brisk boil. Add the Linguine pasta and cook according to the package instructions until it is al dente. Remember, the pasta will carry on cooking even after it's drained, so aim for that perfectly ‘to the tooth’ texture.
Mixing Pesto Genovese: While the pasta cooks, take this moment to prepare your Pesto Genovese. In a large mixing bowl, combine the Pesto Ligure by Ranise with the extra virgin olive oil to create a smoother consistency. This helps the pesto coat the linguine evenly.
Incorporating the Cheese: Add the freshly grated Parmigiano Reggiano and Pecorino cheese to the pesto and mix well until you get a creamy mixture. The combination of these two cheeses adds a delightful depth of flavor to your dish.
Draining and Tossing the Pasta: Once your pasta is cooked to perfection, drain it well. Reserve a cup of the pasta water to adjust the consistency of your sauce if necessary. Add the linguine to the bowl with your pesto mix and toss gently, ensuring each strand is beautifully coated. If your sauce is too thick, add a little of the reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency.
Garnishing and Serving: Serve the Linguine al Pesto Genovese in warm pasta bowls. Garnish with a sprinkle of pine nuts, a few fresh basil leaves, and perhaps an extra dusting of Parmigiano Reggiano. If you like, a pinch of black pepper over the top can add an extra zing.
A Culinary Journey to Remember
This recipe is an invitation to embark on a culinary journey to the Ligurian coast, where the aroma of basil and the warmth of the Mediterranean sun envelop you in every bite. The Pesto Ligure by Ranise, with its authentic flavors, ensures that even in the comfort of your home, you can experience the richness of Italian culinary traditions. Grab this ingredient now.
Pair this delightful pasta dish with a glass of crisp white wine, and let each bite transport you to the charming piazzas and breathtaking landscapes of Liguria. Buon appetito!