Pasta with Jalapeno Pesto

Ingredients and Weight:

• 1 pound dried pasta (spaghetti, penne, or rigatoni)
• 1 bunch fresh basil (about 1 cup packed leaves)
• 1/2 cup olive oil
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup chopped onion
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 jalapeno pepper, seeded and minced (adjust amount to taste for desired heat level)
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 cup chopped sun-dried tomatoes (optional)

Preparation Time:

15 minutes

Cooking Time:

15 minutes

Difficulty Level:

2 (Easy)

Preparation Method Steps:

1. Cook the pasta according to package directions.
2. While the pasta is cooking, make the pesto. Combine the basil, olive oil, Parmesan cheese, onion, garlic, jalapeno, salt, and pepper in a food processor or blender. Pulse until smooth.
3. Drain the pasta and add it to a large bowl.
4. Pour the pesto over the pasta and toss to coat.
5. Add the sun-dried tomatoes, if desired.
6. Serve immediately, garnished with additional Parmesan cheese and basil leaves.

Nutritional Information:

One serving (1 cup) contains:

• Calories: 360
• Fat: 15g (3g saturated)
• Carbohydrates: 60g
• Protein: 12g

Dish Characteristics:

• Vibrant green color
• Aromatic with fresh basil and jalapeno
• Creamy and flavorful
• Can be customized to your desired heat level
• A versatile dish that can be served as a main course or side dish

User Comments:

• "This pasta is absolutely delicious! The pesto is so creamy and flavorful, with just the right amount of heat from the jalapeno."
• "I love how easy this dish is to make. It's a quick and impressive meal for any occasion."
• "I added some grilled chicken to this pasta and it was perfect for a light and healthy dinner."
• "The leftovers were even better the next day. The flavors meld together wonderfully."
• "I'm not a big fan of spicy food, so I only used half a jalapeno. It was still delicious and had a nice, subtle heat."

Special Precautions and Tips:

• If you don't have a food processor or blender, you can finely chop the basil, onion, and garlic by hand.
• To adjust the heat level of the pesto, add more or less jalapeno as desired.
• This dish is gluten-free if you use gluten-free pasta.