Basil-walnut pesto with mushrooms, jalapeno, and sun-dried tomatoes is a delightful and flavorful pasta sauce or condiment that combines the earthy richness of mushrooms, the slight heat of jalapenos, and the sweet intensity of sun-dried tomatoes with the classic freshness of basil and the nuttiness of walnuts. This dish is a fusion of Italian and Mediterranean flavors, offering a burst of taste and aroma.
History:
The history of pesto dates back to ancient Rome, where a similar sauce called “moretum” was made using ingredients like garlic, cheese, herbs, and olive oil. The modern basil-based pesto, which we know today, hails from Genoa, Italy. It traditionally consists of fresh basil leaves, pine nuts, Parmesan cheese, garlic, and extra virgin olive oil. However, variations like this one with mushrooms, jalapenos, and sun-dried tomatoes have evolved over time to suit different tastes and preferences.
Components:
To make Basil-Walnut Pesto with Mushrooms, Jalapeno & Sun-Dried Tomatoes, you’ll need the following components:
Ingredients:
- Fresh basil leaves
- Walnuts
- Garlic cloves
- Parmesan cheese (or a suitable vegetarian alternative)
- Olive oil
- Mushrooms (sliced)
- Jalapeno pepper (deseeded and finely chopped for a mild kick)
- Sun-dried tomatoes (chopped for a sweet and tangy flavor)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Pasta of your choice (like spaghetti or linguine)
Steps to Prepare:
Here are the steps to prepare this delicious dish:
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Prepare the Pesto:
- In a food processor, combine fresh basil leaves, walnuts, garlic cloves, and Parmesan cheese.
- Slowly drizzle in olive oil while blending until you achieve a smooth paste.
- Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Adjust the consistency with more olive oil if needed.
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Sauté Mushrooms and Jalapenos:
- Heat some olive oil in a pan over medium heat.
- Add sliced mushrooms and chopped jalapeno pepper.
- Sauté until the mushrooms are tender and the jalapenos are slightly softened.
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Cook the Pasta:
- Cook your choice of pasta in a large pot of salted boiling water until al dente. Drain and set aside.
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Combine Everything:
- In a large bowl, toss the cooked pasta with the basil-walnut pesto and the sautéed mushrooms and jalapenos.
- Add the chopped sun-dried tomatoes and mix everything together.
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Serve:
- Plate your dish and garnish with extra Parmesan cheese if desired.
- You can also sprinkle some fresh basil leaves on top for a burst of color and flavor.
Time Needed:
The preparation time for this dish can vary, but it typically takes around 30-45 minutes from start to finish. This includes the time needed for cooking the pasta, making the pesto, and sautéing the mushrooms and jalapenos. It’s a relatively quick and satisfying meal to prepare, perfect for a casual dinner or a special occasion.
Enjoy your homemade Basil-Walnut Pesto with Mushrooms, Jalapeno & Sun-Dried Tomatoes!
Certainly, here are the nutrition facts and some health information for Basil-Walnut Pesto with Mushrooms, Jalapeno & Sun-Dried Tomatoes:
Nutrition Facts (Approximate Values for 1 serving, without pasta):
- Calories: 250-300 kcal
- Total Fat: 22-24g
- Saturated Fat: 3-4g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 12-14g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 4-5g
- Cholesterol: 4-5mg (if using Parmesan cheese)
- Sodium: 150-200mg (mainly from cheese and seasoning)
- Total Carbohydrates: 6-8g
- Dietary Fiber: 1-2g
- Sugars: 1-2g
- Protein: 7-9g
Health Information:
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Healthy Fats: This recipe contains healthy fats from olive oil and walnuts. These fats are monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats, which can have positive effects on heart health when consumed in moderation.
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Protein: While this dish is not particularly high in protein, it does provide a moderate amount from the nuts and cheese. You can increase the protein content by adding grilled chicken, tofu, or chickpeas if desired.
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Fiber: The dish provides a small amount of dietary fiber, mainly from the vegetables. You can boost the fiber content by using whole-grain pasta if you prefer.
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Vitamins and Minerals: Basil is a good source of vitamin K and a decent source of vitamin A. It also contains small amounts of other vitamins and minerals like vitamin C, calcium, and iron. Mushrooms are rich in vitamins like riboflavin, niacin, and selenium.
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Jalapeno and Sun-Dried Tomatoes: Jalapenos add a bit of spiciness to the dish, and they contain capsaicin, which may have metabolism-boosting properties. Sun-dried tomatoes are rich in vitamins like C and K, as well as antioxidants.
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Portion Control: Keep in mind that the calorie count mentioned is for the sauce alone, not including pasta. The final calorie count will depend on the type and amount of pasta you use. It’s a good idea to practice portion control, especially if you’re watching your calorie intake.
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Customization: You can make this dish healthier by using whole-grain pasta, reducing the amount of cheese, and using less olive oil in the pesto. Additionally, you can add more vegetables like spinach or roasted red peppers for added nutrition.
As with any recipe, moderation and balance are key to enjoying this dish as part of a healthy diet. It’s a flavorful and satisfying option that can be customized to suit your nutritional preferences and dietary needs.
