Trenette with Pesto, Potatoes, and Green Beans: A Classic Italian Delight
Trenette with pesto, potatoes, and green beans is a comforting, flavorful dish that brings the freshness of summer into every bite. With the creamy richness of pesto, the softness of potatoes, and the crisp texture of green beans, this dish embodies the best of Italian cuisine. The combination of basil, pine nuts, and two types of cheese enhances the flavor profile, creating a memorable and satisfying meal. Perfect for lunch or dinner, it’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Trenette (or similar pasta) | 320g |
| Potatoes | 120g |
| Green Beans | 100g |
| Fresh Basil | 35g |
| Extra Virgin Olive Oil | 35g |
| Parmigiano Reggiano DOP | 25g |
| Pecorino Sardo | 15g |
| Pine Nuts | 15g |
| Garlic | 1 clove |
| Coarse Salt | A pinch |
| Fresh Basil (for garnish) | As needed |
Nutritional Information (per serving)
| Nutrient | Amount per serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 500-550 kcal |
| Protein | 15g |
| Carbohydrates | 75g |
| Fats | 20g |
| Fiber | 6g |
| Sodium | 300mg |
Instructions
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Prepare the Pesto:
- Start by washing the fresh basil leaves under cold running water. Gently pat them dry using a kitchen towel. This will help retain their freshness and flavor.
- In a marble mortar, add the garlic clove, making sure to remove the inner green shoot (the “soul” of the garlic, which can be bitter). Use a wooden pestle to crush the garlic into a smooth paste.
- Add the pine nuts to the mortar and continue grinding to blend them with the garlic. This will help release the oils in the pine nuts and create a creamier texture.
- Gradually add the basil leaves to the mixture, continuing to grind until they form a smooth paste.
- Finally, incorporate the grated Parmigiano Reggiano DOP and Pecorino Sardo into the mixture, adding richness and depth to the pesto.
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-
Cook the Vegetables and Pasta:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. While the water is heating up, peel the potatoes and cut them into small cubes. Trim the green beans by snapping off the ends, keeping them whole for a better texture.
- Once the water is boiling, add the trenette pasta to the pot. Cook according to the package instructions, usually around 8-10 minutes.
- After 2-3 minutes of cooking the pasta, add the green beans to the pot. Let them cook with the pasta for the remaining time, allowing both the pasta and the green beans to soften together.
- Add the diced potatoes to the pot about 4-5 minutes before the pasta is done cooking, ensuring that the potatoes cook until tender but not mushy.
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Combine and Serve:
- Once the pasta, potatoes, and green beans are cooked, drain them well, reserving a small cup of the cooking water. This will help loosen the pesto if needed.
- Transfer the cooked pasta, green beans, and potatoes to a large mixing bowl. Add the freshly prepared pesto, stirring gently to coat the pasta and vegetables evenly. If the mixture feels too thick, add a bit of the reserved cooking water to achieve a smoother consistency.
- Garnish with extra fresh basil leaves and a light drizzle of extra virgin olive oil for an added touch of flavor.
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Serve:
- Serve your trenette with pesto, potatoes, and green beans immediately while it’s warm. This dish pairs beautifully with a light white wine or a refreshing sparkling water.
Tips for Success
- Pesto Variation: If pine nuts are unavailable or you prefer a different flavor, you can substitute them with walnuts or almonds. Each nut will bring its own unique twist to the pesto.
- Vegan Option: To make this dish vegan-friendly, simply omit the cheeses or replace them with a vegan alternative, such as nutritional yeast or plant-based Parmesan.
- Add Protein: For a more filling meal, consider adding grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu as a topping to this dish. This will provide an extra protein boost, making it perfect for a hearty dinner.
Trenette with pesto, potatoes, and green beans is a versatile and nourishing dish that can be enjoyed throughout the year. The beauty of this recipe lies in the simplicity of its ingredients, all of which complement each other in flavor and texture. Whether you’re enjoying it on a warm summer evening or as a cozy dinner on a chilly night, it’s sure to become a beloved addition to your recipe collection.
